Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids. It is a persistent condition with no one-off cure. However, symptoms can usually be reduced and managed with a variety of treatments.
Once the symptoms have eased, they can be kept at a minimum with a simple eyelid hygiene regime. Blepharitis does not generally affect eyesight.
Types of Blepharitis
Anterior: – this is when inflammation affects the outside of your eyelids where your eyelashes connect. This can be caused by bacterial infection or Seborrhoeic dermatitis.
Posterior: – this is when the inflammation affects the inside edge of the eyelids, where they are in contact with your eye. This can happen when the glands (at the rim of the eyelids) are affected. This can be due to skin conditions.
Symptoms of Blepharitis
- The main symptom is sore eyelids
- Eye irritation, red eyelid margins
- The eyelids may look inflamed and stick together in the morning
- Tiny flakes that look like dandruff may appear on the eyelids and the lid margins may develop crusts at the base of the eyelashes
Treatments
If you are experiencing symptoms of blepharitis, book an appointment to consult the optician. A variety of treatments are available, depending on the severity of the condition.
You may be advised or guided on the following:
- Regular eyelid hygiene
- Cleansing the eyelids – it is important to always do this; even if there is no infection.
- Warm compresses to the eyelids – this will loosen the crusts on your eyes before you can clean them.
- Artificial tears (because your tears evaporate quickly)
Your optician will guide you on the best treatment regime to apply. For further details, please see the NHS factsheet on blepharitis below http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/Blepharitis/Pages/Introduction.aspx