3 Care Distinctions When Rosacea Affects Your Eyes

You may already have a routine for facial redness. When your eyes become sore or gritty, it can be frustrating to learn that the products beside the sink do not answer every part of the problem.

Three distinctions to make

1. Skin review versus eye assessment. Tell the clinician about the eye symptoms directly, even if your appointment began with facial redness. Mild or moderate eye symptoms may be treated by a dermatologist; symptoms threatening vision need immediate eye-specialist care.¹
2. Face cleansing versus eyelid care. An eye plan may include warm compresses and cleaning around the eyelashes.¹ Ask which method and product to use, how long to apply a compress and what to do if the routine hurts.
3. Skin medicine versus eye medicine. Depending on the findings, treatment can include artificial tears or prescribed eye medicines.¹ Ask which product goes where. Do not assume a cream for your cheeks belongs beside or inside your eyes.

Symptoms that should not wait for routine review

The NHS² advises urgent assessment for eye pain, blurred vision, light sensitivity, a red eye or a gritty feeling in someone with rosacea, because these can indicate inflammation of the cornea.²

Keep the eye-drop names and written instructions with your skin plan. If there are several products, ask the pharmacist or clinician to explain the order and timing before you leave.

Skin, Head to Toe includes a Skin Log and visit script. Use them to note when symptoms occur and prepare the questions you want answered at review. See the book.