In most cases, ocular rosacea develops in one or both eyes of those patients who have had rosacea for a few years, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Dermatologists typically treat ocular rosacea with antibiotics, although since there is no cure for rosacea, the condition often reoccurs. In recent years, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids have shown some efficacy in decreasing the symptoms of ocular rosacea. Flaxseed oil and fish oil both contain omega-3 fatty acids, but flaxseed oil is considered a better treatment since it contains both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Consult your doctor before trying to prevent, treat or cure any condition with flaxseed oil or fish oils.
Symptoms
Ocular rosacea typically manifests as swollen, inflamed eyelids with blood vessels appearing in your eyes or on your eyelids. Other symptoms include burning, dryness, itchiness and irritation, sensitivity to light, pain, blurred vision, and the sensation that something is in your eye. In some cases, ocular rosacea will cause an inflamed cyst similar to a stye to develop on the eyelid.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fatty acids that the body cannot manufacture on its own and which appear to reduce inflammation in the body. Fish oils such as salmon oil, cod liver oil and sardine oil are all excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids. According to researchers at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Department of Dermatology in Miami, Florida, omega-3 fatty acids have demonstrated some efficacy in minimizing the symptoms of rosacea and ocular rosacea, although further studies are required.
Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Omega-6 fatty acids are also essential in that the body relies on food sources to acquire them. Omega-6 fatty acids are not found in fish oil, but they are found in flaxseed oil. According to the University of Miami researchers, omega-6 fatty acids have also demonstrated some positive results in the treatment of rosacea and ocular rosacea, therefore flaxseed oil is considered the better choice for ocular rosacea since it contains both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.
Warning
If you suspect that you have ocular rosacea, it is imperative that you treat it immediately. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, ocular rosacea can progress and cause vision problems. Speak to your doctor or health care practitioner about flaxseed oil and fish oil for ocular rosacea.
References
- Skin Care Physicians: RosaceaNet Spotlight Article: What Is Ocular rosacea?
- "Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology"; Diet and Acne and Rosacea; J.E. Keri, et al.; September 2008
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Omega-6 Fatty Acids
- Skin Care Physicians: RosaceaNet: Rosacea Treatment: Eye Problems
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