Over 82 million people in the United States are estimated to be affected by blepharitis – an inflammatory eye condition that causes a range of unpleasant symptoms that can negatively impact your day-to-day life. It can develop at any age but is most often diagnosed in young children and in people over the age of 50. Many people experience repeated episodes of blepharitis symptoms during the course of their lifetime. Fortunately, there is a treatment that can help. First, let’s find out more about this common eye condition.

 

What Causes Blepharitis?

In many cases, the true cause of blepharitis is never realized. However, it is often caused by a reaction to the bacteria that are naturally found on the skin of the eyelids. You are also more likely to suffer from blepharitis if you also have a skin condition like rosacea, acne, or seborrhoeic dermatitis. Many people who have dry eye conditions also suffer from blepharitis.

There are several different types of blepharitis. These are:

Posterior blepharitis, which affects the glands behind the eyelashes.

Anterior blepharitis, which affects the glands at the base of the eyelashes.

Combination blepharitis, which affects both.

 

Do I have Blepharitis?

There is a range of symptoms associated with blepharitis. These include:

• Visibly swollen and inflamed eyelids

• Crusty eyelashes

• Itchy eyelids

• A granular sensation when blinking

• Burning, stinging sensation affecting the eyes

• Loss of eyelashes

• In-growing eyelashes

• Cysts on the eyelids

Symptoms may affect only one eye, or both at the same time. If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s advisable to speak to your eye doctor to obtain a diagnosis and support.
 

Diagnosing and Treating Blepharitis

It’s fairly easy to diagnose blepharitis and in many instances, your eye doctor will be able to confirm a diagnosis simply by asking about your symptoms and examining your eyes. In some cases, a swab of the skin of the eyelids may be taken which will be examined.

Exactly what treatment you will be offered will depend on the type of blepharitis you are diagnosed with. However, the main technique to treat any type of blepharitis is to keep the eyelids as clean as possible as this will help to minimize irritation and swelling, and significantly improve your symptoms. Some of the methods you can use to keep your eyelids clean include:

Warm compresses. Warm compresses can help to loosen any dry, crusty areas on the eyelids. Use a clean cloth and soak it in clean, warm water. You can add a small amount of baby shampoo or prescription eyelid cleanser to the water if you wish. Hold the cloth against your eye to loosen any crusting, then gently rub it back and forth to remove any debris. Rinse the eye with fresh, clean water. Then use a different cloth for the other eye.

Other top tips for treating blepharitis include:
 

• Massaging the eyelids to stimulate oil production, clearing out any blockages.

• Limiting your use of eye cosmetics can irritate the eyes further and make it harder to keep them clean.

• Using artificial tears, particularly in the case of accompanying dry eyes.

• Stopping the use of contact lenses during treatment.

If your eye doctor thinks that you may have an infection, antibiotic eye drops may be prescribed to assist with treatment.

If you are concerned about blepharitis, visit Premier Eye Care in Fort Worth, Texas, or speak to our expert eyecare team by calling (817) 428-2020.