Blepharitis
On this page, you will find everything you seek about blepharitis.
What is Blepharitis?
Blepharitis is a common, non-contagious condition of the eyelids where the eyelid appears swollen, red, and may have some crusts. It occurs due to infection, skin irritation, or blockage of the oil glands in the eye. It usually affects people with oily skin or those with skin conditions more frequently.
What are the symptoms of blepharitis?
- The signs and symptoms of blepharitis are numerous and include:
- Swollen eyelids
- Red and itchy eyes
- Crusts on the eyelashes and corners of the eyelid
- Skin flakes gather around the eye
- Dryness of the eye
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
Loss of eyelashes
What causes blepharitis?
- Blepharitis occurs due to various problems, and there are two different types of blepharitis depending on the location of inflammation:
- Anterior blepharitis: This occurs when the outer surface of the eyelid is red and swollen, or when crusts appear on the tips of the eyelashes.
Posterior blepharitis: This type occurs when the oil glands beneath the eyelid produce a thick substance.
- The causes are categorized based on the presence of inflammation:
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- Causes of anterior blepharitis:
- Acne or rosacea: Rosacea can lead to facial skin inflammation, which may include the eyelid.
- Allergies: Allergies from contact lens solutions, eye drops, or makeup can irritate the eyelids.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: Flakes from seborrheic dermatitis can irritate the eyelids and cause inflammation.
- Dry eyes
- Lice: Lice or mites can block the eyelash follicles and glands in the eye.
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- Causes of posterior blepharitis:
- Dysfunction of the oil glands in the eye: When the oily substance does not flow from the glands, it can cause dry eyes, leading to inflammation and infection.
- Acne and rosacea
Seborrheic dermatitis
How is blepharitis diagnosed?
The eye examination is performed in steps to determine the extent and type of blepharitis:
- – Medical history is taken, where the ophthalmologist asks about symptoms and risk factors for blepharitis and conducts a clinical examination of the eyelid and eyelashes. The doctor may perform additional procedures, such as:
- Taking a swab of eye secretions to determine the presence and type of bacteria, if there are secretions.
Conducting a tear test by taking a sample to determine if dry eyes are a contributing factor to blepharitis.
How is blepharitis treated?
- Some types of blepharitis can be treated at home, where self-care may help soothe symptoms with simple steps:
- Avoid eye makeup
- Use warm compresses to reduce inflammation
Use special wipes to remove crusts from the eyelashes
However, some types require medical attention depending on their severity. The doctor examines the swollen eyelid and prescribes treatments that include antibiotics or anti-inflammatory drops.
How can blepharitis be prevented?
- Although many cases of blepharitis cannot be prevented, several steps can reduce risk factors:
- Maintain clean hands, face, and scalp.
- Remove makeup before sleeping.
- Use glasses instead of contact lenses.
- Use moisturizing eye drops in case of dry eyes.
Use anti-dandruff shampoo for hair if dandruff is present.
What are the complications of blepharitis?
- If left untreated, blepharitis can lead to more severe eye conditions, including:
- Chalazion, a small bump or swelling in the eyelid.
- Corneal ulcer (keratitis) may occur due to prolonged inflammation or swelling of the eyelid.
- Eyelid issues, such as eyelash loss or abnormal growth.
- Pink eye (conjunctivitis).stye).
A painful bump (stye) near the eyelashes.
When should you see a doctor?
If symptoms do not improve after a few days of self-care, it is advisable to visit a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can poor eye hygiene cause blepharitis?
