Sufferers of ocular rosacea, a subtype characterized by irritated eyes, may find their symptoms worsen during certain seasons of the year. Here are some tips to help ease your discomfort:

• Block the wind. Wear glasses or sunglasses when you have to go outdoors to protect your eyes from the wind. Shielding your face with a wide-brimmed hat or umbrella may also help.
• Consider artificial tears. Your tear ducts or meibomian glands may occasionally become blocked, resulting in dry, irritated eyes. Artificial tears, available at most drugstores, help to moisturize the surface of the eye..
• Practice good hygiene. Daily eyelash shampooing can minimize blockage that may lead to dry eye or styes, both common manifestations of ocular rosacea. Simply place a drop of baby shampoo on a wet washcloth and carefully rub onto a closed eyelid to create a lather, and then rinse away with lukewarm water..
• Use your medication. To maintain remission, be sure to follow your doctor’s orders regarding long-term medical therapy. If your symptoms persist or worsen, you may need to see an eye specialist. While ocular rosacea often is mild, severe cases may lead to serious complications, such as corneal damage that can result in reduction of visual acuity.