Blepharitis is a skin disorder in which there is an inflammation in the oil glands of the eyelids. It usually affects both eyes around the edges of the eyelids. The eyelids become red, itchy, and swollen. This happens when the oil glands in the eyelids get clogged and irritated. It is an uncomfortable condition but not a contagious disorder and does not affect the vision. It can affect anyone and can be either acute or chronic. Chronic blepharitis is the more common type of this condition.
Symptoms
The symptoms of blepharitis are usually worse in the mornings. The most common signs and symptoms of blepharitis are:
- Red eyes
- Watery eyes
- Itchy eyelids
- Greasy looking eyelids
- Stinging or burning sensation in the eyes
- Red and swollen eyelids
- Eyelids that are sticky
- Crusted eyelashes
- Flaking of the skin around the eyes
- Sensitivity to light
- Frequent blinking
- Blurred vision
Causes
The exact cause of blepharitis is not known yet. There are a number of factors that can cause this condition. Some of them include:
- Clogged or malfunctioning of the oil glands in the eyes
- Dandruff in the scalp and eyebrows
- Infection
- Rosacea (a common skin condition that causes redness and visible blood vessels in the face)
- Allergies
- Dry eyes
- Eyelash mites or lice
Treatment
Blepharitis cannot be cured but can be treated to relieve the symptoms. Eyelid hygiene is the most important tool in treating both acute and chronic forms of blepharitis. Self-care is a very important part of the treatment which needs to continue even after the symptoms have been relieved. Washing the eyes, eyelids cleansing, warm compresses, and massaging the eyelids to express the oil glands are all part of the treatment. If self-care measures are not sufficient, prescription treatments are suggested which include:
- Medications that fight infection
- Medications to control inflammation
- Treatments for underlying conditions such as dandruff and rosacea
It is important to get blepharitis treated because it could lead to further complications such as loss of eyelashes, excess tears, dry eyes which could increase the risk of infection in the corneas, scarring on the eyelids, cornea inflammation, and clogged glands that might get infected.
Disclaimer: The information in no way constitutes, or should be construed as medical advice. Nor is the above article an endorsement of any research findings discussed in the article an endorsement for any of the source publications.
