Blepharitis, Styes and Ocular Rosacea
Ocular rosacea is a common but often overlooked subtype that affects the eyes. It can cause significant discomfort and, if left untreated, can lead to more serious eye complications. Its symptoms frequently overlap with common eye conditions like blepharitis and styes.
Why eye symptoms occur
Ocular rosacea is caused by inflammation of the meibomian glands, which are tiny oil-producing glands along the edge of the eyelids. When these glands become blocked and inflamed, they can't produce the healthy oils needed for a stable tear film. This leads to evaporative dry eye, causing symptoms of grittiness, burning, and redness. This inflammation also creates an environment where styes (infected glands) and blepharitis (chronic eyelid inflammation) are more likely to occur.
Long-term lid care routines
Simple measures that can help include the following:
- Warm Compress: Apply a clean, warm flannel to closed eyelids for 5-10 minutes to help melt the hardened oils in the glands.
- Gentle Massage: Lightly massage the eyelids towards the lash line to help express the oils.
- Lid Cleansing: Use a dedicated, gentle eyelid wipe or cleanser to remove debris and bacteria from the lash line. Preservative-free artificial tears can also help with dryness. For persistent symptoms, oral tetracyclines may be required.
When symptoms are persistent I advise patients to arrange a consultation with an opthalmologist (eye specialist).
How can I help
I see patients in person in central London. An in person consultation allows me to examine the skin directly including features that are difficult to capture in a photograph such as 3-dimensional changes and textural change. This is the better option where the diagnosis is uncertain, where previous treatment has not been effective, or where a procedure is being considered. For more straightforward conditions such as acne and rosacea a remote consultation with clear photographs can be a good option.
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