What is Blepharitis?
Blepharitis is inflammation of the oil glands (meibomian gland) along the edges of the eyelids and on the eyelid skin. It most commonly occurs when small oil glands located at the base of the eyelashes become plugged, resulting in redness and irritation. Certain diseases and conditions can also cause blepharitis.
There are different types of blepharitis, including posterior blepharitis and anterior blepharitis, as well as staphylococcal blepharitis and seborrheic blepharitis.
Symptoms of Blepharitis
The symptoms associated with blepharitis are usually worse in the morning, and may include:
- Red eyes and/or eyelids.
- Watery eyes.
- Itchy eyelids.
- A stinging or burning feeling in the eyes.
- Greasy eyelids/oily skin.
- Crusty eyelashes.
- Flaking of the skin around the eyes.
- Sensitivity to light.
- Blurry vision that improves with blinking.
The exact cause of blepharitis is not currently understood, though in some cases it can spread from person to person. Experts believe that it may be associated with a number of conditions, including seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, eyelash mites or lice, clogged oil glands in the eyelids, allergies, dry eyes, or infection.
KNOW YOUR DOCTOR
Dr. Archana Gupta
Cataract Surgeon, Ophthalmologist, Cornea & External Diseases Specialist
Dr. Archana Gupta is a board certified ophthalmologist. She specializes in cataract, cornea, external diseases and refractive surgery.
How is Blepharitis Diagnosed?
If you are experiencing the symptoms associated with blepharitis, be sure to visit your eye doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. At our office, Dr. Gupta will examine your eyes using a special magnifying instrument, as well as swab your eyelids to test for bacteria or fungi. This can help her to rule out any possible allergies or infections.
Blepharitis Treatment Options
For mild cases of blepharitis, washing your eyes with a clean washcloth, using warm compresses, and over-the-counter artificial tears may be enough to calm symptoms. During treatment, you will want to stop using eye makeup.
However, in more severe cases, treating blepharitis may require prescription treatments, such as:
Antibiotics
Topical antibiotics that are applied to the eyelids may help to relieve symptoms as well as treat bacterial infection of the eyelids. These are available as creams, ointments, and eye drops. In some cases, you may be prescribed an oral antibiotic.
Steroid Eye Drops
Steroid eye drops are often used to control inflammation of the eyes and eyelids.
Medications that Affect the Immune System
Immunosuppressant drugs such as topical cyclosporine (Restasis) have been shown to be effective in relieving symptoms of blepharitis.
Treatments for Underlying Conditions
If your blepharitis is believed to be caused by an underlying condition such as rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, or more, your symptoms may be controlled by treating the underlying disease.
Schedule Your Appointment
You don’t have to live with the uncomfortable symptoms associated with blepharitis. If you believe that you may have this condition or have been diagnosed and are seeking treatment, contact Advanced Eye Surgeons today. We will be happy to schedule your appointment with Dr. Gupta!
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