South Cowichan Life Magazine

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Insight – Ocular Rosacea
By Dr Trevor Miranda
Overview
Ocular rosacea is associated with a chronic skin condition known as
rosacea or acne rosacea. This common problem usually affects those
with light skin, and in the early stages is characterized by redness
and bumps concentrated on the forehead, nose and cheeks. One of
the earliest symptoms of rosacea, often experienced during puberty,
is facial flushing. Flushing for any reason is liable to bring on an
attack of redness and pimples. Even people who are being treated
for rosacea can relapse if they flush.
The following triggers can set it off:
• strong emotional reactions, like embarrassment or anger
• hot drinks
• alcoholic beverages
• stress
• sunlight
• extreme hot and cold temperatures
• vigourous exercise
• menopause
• some medications
Eventually, the skin may become chronically red, irritated and
inflamed. The most severe cases go on to develop rhinophyma,
the thickening of the skin and connective tissues of the nose, often
resulting in some facial scarring. Women are affected more often
than men, but men tend to have more severe symptoms
Approximately 60% of patients with rosacea develop ocular
rosacea. These patients most commonly experience irritation of the
lids and eye, occurring when the oil-producing glands of the lids
become obstructed. Styes, blepharitis, dry eye, and chronically
bloodshot eyes are also typical conditions. Sometimes scales and
crusts can form on the eyelids; there may also be sensitivity to light
or blurry vision. In severe ocular rosacea, there may be corneal
ulceration, which, if untreated, may even lead to corneal scarring.
This is a potentially blinding complication.
Detection and Diagnosis
Ocular rosacea is diagnosed by an overall examination of both
the facial skin and eyes. Eye care practitioners also frequently use
a biomicroscope, which allows the detection of tiny visible blood
vessels along the eyelid edge and any plugging of the meibomian
glands – both signs of ocular rosacea. Those with rosacea are
frequently under the care of a dermatologist and are referred for
treatment to an eye care professional when the patient develops
related eye conditions.
South Cowichan Eyecare
Optometrists
VALLEY VIEW CENTRE
#56–1400 Cowichan Bay Road
Dr. Trevor Miranda*
Dr. Anita Voisin*
Dr. Carla Clarke
OPTOMETRISTS
*Denotes Optometric
Corporation
Cobble Hill, BC V0R 1L3 743-8899
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