Inflammation of the eye can be a harbinger of rosacea

One of the symptoms of rosacea, which can appear long before skin rashes, is inflammation of the eye. Most often, both eyes are affected at the same time, and the disease is called rosacea-keratitis. Since rosacea is quite severe in its advanced forms, it is very important to pay attention to inflammation of the eye at the time of diagnosis, as this symptom can help in the timely diagnosis of the disease and lead to early treatment. Rosacea-keratitis can develop simultaneously with rashes, and even some time after the onset of rosacea.

 The reasons why there is inflammation of the eye with rosacea

The reasons for the development of rosacea and inflammation of the eye in this disease are still a matter of debate. However, some factors are known that contribute to their manifestation:

• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
• endocrine disruptions and hormonal fluctuations (e.g. during menopause);
• hypertension;
• unfavorable environmental and lifestyle factors (stress, poor nutrition, frequent excessive insolation, very high physical activity).

There is a proven link between inflammation of the eye in rosacea and a lack of B vitamins (especially B6 and B12) in the body. The possible active role of Demodex mites in the development of both rosacea and associated inflammation of the eye is discussed.

 Symptoms indicating a link between inflammation of the eye and rosacea

Shortly before the eruption of rosacea on the skin or simultaneously with them, the patient begins to notice burning and pain in the eyes, lacrimation and photophobia. The cornea of ​​the eye becomes inflamed, purulent discharge may appear, telangiectasias become visible on the eyelids.

In parallel with inflammation of the eye or both eyes, erythema appears on the forehead, cheeks, nose, telangiectasia and peeling are observed on the skin, bright red rashes of a papulo-pustular nature, hypertrophic changes in certain areas of the face gradually come to the fore (for example , rhinophyma). Patients report a burning sensation of the skin and a feeling of tingling.

With an exacerbation of rosacea, inflammation of the eye increases again, since rosacea keratitis is directly related to the activation of rosacea rashes. Each new such exacerbation is accompanied by a deterioration in the patient's vision, the appearance of ulcers and infiltrates on the cornea, which subsequently scar, lead to thinning of the cornea or even, in severe cases, to its melting.

 How is eye inflammation treated with rosacea

Therapy for inflammation of the eye in rosacea is carried out in three directions:

• treatment of rosacea on the skin;
• elimination of concomitant pathologies (treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, elimination of hormonal imbalance);
• eye inflammation therapy.

Rosacea-keratitis is treated with corticosteroids in the form of ointment applications and subconjunctival injections. At the same time, vitamins (riboflavin) and mydriatics are instilled, anti-inflammatory gels (Solcoseryl, Actovegin) are placed behind the lower eyelid. If there are suggestions about the addition of a bacterial infection, sulfonamides, antibacterial drugs are indicated. Novocaine blockades are being carried out.

In case of exacerbations of the disease, patients are recommended salt-free & nbsp; and a carbohydrate-free diet, symptomatic therapy with antihistamines, multivitamins are indicated. Since inflammation of the eyes with rosacea has a wave-like character, the patient is advised to avoid overheating, hypothermia, diet violations, so as not to provoke an exacerbation of the disease.