Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids. It usually affects the
edges (margins) of the eyelids. It is not usually serious, but may become
an uncomfortable, itchy problem. Blepharitis is typically chronic (persistent).
Unfortunately the exact cause is not known.
Blepharitis symptoms
Typical
symptoms are itch and discomfort of the eyelids. The eyelids may look
inflamed or greasy. You may find it difficult to open your eyes in the
morning. Sometimes tiny flakes or scales appear on the eyelids which look
like fine dandruff and crusts may develop at the base of the eyelashes.
Sometimes the eyelids also become infected. The eyelids may then become
sore and more inflamed.
One or more of the tiny glands of the eyelids may become blocked and fill
with a mucus-like fluid. The glands may also become infected which can
cause a stye. Some people with blepharitis also make fewer tears of poorer
quality than normal. This may lead to dry eyes which can cause the eyes
to feel gritty and sore.
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Photographs
of lash crusting and inflamed lid margins
with cyst formation in 2 cases of blepharitis |
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What is the treatment for blepharitis?
There
is no one-off cure as the inflammation tends to recur. However, symptoms
can usually be eased with regular treatment. Regular eyelid hygiene is
the most important part of treatment and prevention. The treatment aims
to loosen and then remove the crusts which form around the base of the
eyelashes.
Add
a pinch of bicarbonate of soda (or a teaspoon of baby shampoo) to a tumbler
of warm, previously boiled, tap water.
- Clean
eyelid and lashes using cotton wool dipped in this cleaning solution.
- Wipe along the lash line using a cotton bud dipped in the cleaning
solution.
If
ointment has been prescribed, apply this to the lid margins after cleaning.
In some cases, a course of antibiotic tablets for 3 or more months may
also be necessary, but it is important to still clean the lashes as above.
You
should carry out lid hygiene twice a day until symptoms settle. When the
symptoms have gone, try and continue lid hygiene once a day at night ,
to help prevent further flare-ups.
Artificial
tear eye drops will also help if you develop dry eyes.
