John Cena reveals he was diagnosed with eye mite condition after mistaking symptoms for aging

John Cena has opened up about a surprising health diagnosis that initially left him assuming his vision problems were simply a part of getting older.

The 49-year-old WWE legend and actor told People that he began experiencing persistent redness, itchiness, and eye irritation, which he initially dismissed as normal age-related changes and excessive screen time.

“I had a lot of redness and itchiness, and every once in a while, waking up with eye crusties and stuff,” Cena said, adding that he first believed it was “just par for the course” as his vision started to decline.

Concerned about his eyesight while regularly working in front of cameras, Cena eventually scheduled a professional eye exam—something he admits he had delayed for some time.

That decision led to a diagnosis of Demodex blepharitis, a condition caused by microscopic mites that live in hair follicles and can trigger inflammation, irritation, and crusting around the eyelids.

“I didn’t even know existed,” Cena said of the condition.

Following the diagnosis, Cena was prescribed XDEMVY, an FDA-approved prescription eye drop treatment from Tarsus Pharmaceuticals. He said his symptoms improved quickly after beginning treatment.

“Immediately, all that stuff went away,” he said, though he noted he still uses reading glasses.

Cena also used the experience to emphasize the importance of routine medical checkups, particularly for eye health, which he said is often overlooked.

“I recommend that everybody do the same,” he said, comparing eye exams to regular dental care and other preventive health checks.

The actor added that he was surprised to learn how common Demodex blepharitis is, estimating it may affect millions of people, many of whom remain undiagnosed.

Cena said the experience has shifted his overall approach to health since stepping away from full-time wrestling, focusing more on long-term physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.

“I want all of that to try to stay on course over the next 30 to 50 years,” he said.

He described his current lifestyle as one centered on “minimal distractions,” gratitude, and preventative care as he continues balancing acting, public appearances, and personal health.