Some studies have shown that ocular rosacea appears in as many as 58 percent of rosacea sufferers, ranging from extremely mild to severe. In fact, ocular rosacea may sometimes provide the first telltale clue that facial rosacea is present. About 20 percent of patients develop ocular symptoms before facial symptoms, according to some reports, and ocular rosacea patients are often referred to dermatologists by their ophthalmologists. The chilly blasts of winter winds may bring on the watery discharge that may be a symptom of ocular rosacea, as well as increased eye irritation and aggravation of other symptoms. Additional signs of ocular rosacea may include eyes that feel dry or gritty, a bloodshot appearance or the presence of a stye.
Cold weather can affect people with facial rosacea as well.
In a survey by the National Rosacea Society to determine environmental influences that may bring on a facial flare-up, cold weather was reported to affect 36 percent of the rosacea sufferers who responded. Since the weather can be a frequent rosacea tripwire in the winter, it is important to be prepared to counter its effects. For patients with ocular symptoms, Dr. Webster recommends minimizing time outdoors and protecting the eyes against icy blasts with glasses or sunglasses. Sufferers with facial as well as ocular rosacea will benefit from covering up with a scarf, or perhaps wearing a ski mask to guard against the cold. In addition, using a moisturizer daily can protect the skin from the naturally drying effects of cold and wind.