Ocular Rosacea Treatment for Over 50s: Women’s World

Ocular rosacea is an inflammatory eye condition that often goes undiagnosed in women over 50, where symptoms like dry, gritty, burning, or irritated eyes are mistakenly blamed on aging or allergies. Closely linked to facial rosacea, the condition affects the eyelids, tear-producing oil glands, and the surface of the eye, disrupting lubrication and causing redness, swelling, light sensitivity, and blurred vision in males and females. Dr. Michele Green notes today in the Women’s World article that. “While rosacea generally affects women more than men, ocular rosacea impacts both genders equally.”

There is a significant connection between ocular rosacea and hormonal changes during menopause, explains Dr. Green in this article. “Declining estrogen levels can heighten inflammation, increase blood vessel sensitivity, and amplify overall reactivity of both the eyes and skin.”  However, to treat this, simple measures like warm compresses and eyelid hygiene can help unclog glands, while oral antibiotics may reduce inflammation throughout the body.

Newer therapies, including medications that target microscopic organisms on the eyelids, in-office gland treatments, and intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy, may be used for more severe cases. Find out more at https://www.womansworld.com/wellness/ocular-rosacea-symptoms-and-treatment-for-women-over-50