Spotlight on: Blepharitis

Blepharitis is a very common condition that affects the eyelids. It causes red, swollen, and irritated eyelids. Blepharitis can affect children and adults. The condition is not contagious, but it can become uncomfortable. Although it does not usually lead to lasting eye damage, it can cause symptoms that become chronic. 

The article below looks at the symptoms, causes, and treatment of blepharitis. 
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Symptoms

Symptoms of blepharitis can come on suddenly, or symptoms may come and go over weeks or months. If symptoms occur on and off, the condition is chronic. Typical symptoms of blepharitis include: 

• Stinging or burning in the eyes
• Red, swollen eyelids
• Itchy eyes
• Gritty feeling in the eyes
• Crusty eyelashes or eyelids
• Dry eyes
• Sensitivity to light 
• Watery eyes

According to the National Eye Institute, more serious complications or symptoms can develop and include: 

• Eyelashes that fall out
• Blurry vision 
• Swelling in the cornea

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Causes and risk factors

Everyone has some level of bacteria on their skin, including the eyelids. Blepharitis can develop when there is excess bacteria on the base of the eyelashes. An increase in bacteria may occur in anyone, but certain conditions include additional risk, such as: 

• Seborrheic dermatitis (This condition involves dandruff of the eyebrows and scalp)
• Clogged oil glands in the eyelids
• Allergies 
• Rosacea (A skin condition that causes excess facial redness) 
• Microscopic mites that live inside the eyelash follicles 

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Diagnosis

Doctors made a diagnosis based on a review of symptoms and a physical exam. A doctor can often diagnose blepharitis by using magnifying instruments to examine the eyes and eyelids. 

In certain instances, the doctor may want to take a sample of the crust or oil that formed on the eyelids. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis. This can help determine the presence of fungi or bacteria. 
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Treatment 

Treatment for blepharitis involves easing symptoms. In many instances, self-care measures at home are enough to reduce symptoms. 

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, self-care treatment includes the following: 

Gentle cleaning of the eyelids: Keep the eyelids as clean as possible without irritating them. Consider using diluted baby shampoo to gently wash the eyelashes and eyelids when crusts develop. Place a small amount baby shampoo cut with water to a Q-Tip. Wash the base of the eyelids for a few seconds. This may help keep oil glands from becoming clogged. 

Applying a warm compress to the eyelids: Wet a washcloth with warm water and place it on the closed eyes for a few minutes. When the washcloth becomes cooler, rewet it so it stays warm. Applying a wet compress can help remove crusts that build up. It may also ease irritation. 

If treatment at home is not enough to decrease symptoms or if the condition returns, additional medical treatment may help. Your doctor may prescribe any of the following treatments: 

Antibiotics: Topical antibiotics applied to the eyelid may reduce symptoms and decrease bacteria. Topical antibiotics are available in different forms, such as creams, ointments, and eyedrops. If topical antibiotic medication is ineffective, your doctor may recommend oral antibiotics. 

Steroid drops: Steroid eyedrops may help decrease inflammation. This type of eyedrop might become an option if symptoms do not improve with antibiotic drops. 

Treatment for underlying disease: Since blepharitis can develop due to conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis and rosacea, treating those conditions may help control blepharitis. 

If you have any questions on blepharitis or if you have symptoms, we are happy to help. Also, if you would like to ask whether an appointment with one of our eye doctors would be appropriate at this time, call our office at 508-746-8600.