ODs can help patients control rosacea symptoms

Rosacea affects 16 million Americans and 415 million individuals worldwide, according to the National Rosacea Society.

In recognition of April as Rosacea Awareness Month, Primary Care Optometry News spoke to Deana LaBrosse, OD, of Evanston Eye Wellness, Evanston, Ill., about how she manages ocular rosacea in her practice.

LaBrosse said she takes a holistic treatment approach.

“Rosacea is a chronic condition, so I want to use treatments that are gentle and have few side effects,” she told PCON. “The inflammation in ocular rosacea starts at the eyelid, so I always incorporate good eyelid hygiene.”

Demodex is implicated in the inflammatory response in rosacea patients, and tea tree oil is particularly effective in controlling the overgrowth of this mite, she said.

Deana LaBrosse

Traditional treatment for the meibomian gland dysfunction that may also be affected by ocular rosacea includes the use of doxycycline. Because of its potential significant side effects, LaBrosse said she prefers to recommend a regimen of omega-3 combined with a GLA fatty acid, such as evening primrose or bilberry, along with anti-inflammatories such as turmeric.

When supportive therapies do not control the ocular rosacea, she said she offers in-office treatments such as BlephEx for lid margin cleansing and MiBo Thermaflo (MiBo Medical Group) for clearing the meibomian glands.

“It is important for the patient to realize that this is a chronic condition,” LaBrosse said. “We will control it but not ‘cure’ it. Seasonal changes, stress and diet can all be factors in flares.”

During Rosacea Awareness Month and throughout the year, the National Rosacea Society will conduct public education activities to reach the millions of rosacea sufferers who may not realize they have a medical condition that can be treated, the group said in a press release. – by Nancy Hemphill, ELS, FAAO

Disclosure: LaBrosse reports no relevant financial disclosures.