What is Blepharitis?

• Blepharitis is term to describe an inflammation
  of the eyelids.
   

• Blepharitis usually involves the part of the eyelid
  where the eyelashes grow and affects both eyelids.
   

• Blepharitis commonly occurs when tiny oil glands located
  near the base of the eyelashes become clogged.
  This leads to irritated and red eyes.
   

• Blepharitis is often a chronic condition that is requires long term therapy.
   

• Blepharitis can be uncomfortable, but unlike pink-eye, this condition is not contagious. Several diseases and conditions can cause blepharitis.

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Signs & Symptoms of Blepharitis:
 

• A gritty, burning or stinging sensation in the eyes

• Eyelids that appear greasy

• Itchy eyelids

• Red, swollen eyelids

• Watery eyes

• Flaking of the skin around the eyes

• Crusted eyelashes upon awakening

• Eyelid sticking

• More frequent blinking

• Sensitivity to light or photophobia

• Eyelashes that grow abnormally or misdirected

• Loss of eyelashes

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Causes of Blepharitis:
 

The cause of blepharitis may be associated with these factors:
 

• Seborrheic dermatitis — dandruff of scalp and eyebrows

• Bacterial infection on the face or lashes

• Eyelash mites or lice

• Clogged or malfunctioning oil glands on the eyelids

• Rosacea — a skin condition characterized by facial redness

• Allergies: 

  • Environmental allergies

  • Allergic reactions to eye medications,

  • Allergic reactions to contact lens solutions or eye makeup
     

Complications of Blepharitis:

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If you have blepharitis, you may also experience:

• Eyelash problems. 

  • Blepharitis can cause your eyelashes to fall out
    or grow abnormally /misdirected eyelashes.
     

• Eyelid skin problems. 

  • Scarring may occur on your eyelids in response
    to long-term blepharitis.

  • Or the eyelid edges may turn inward or outward.
     

• Excess tearing or dry eyes. 

  • Abnormal oily secretions and other debris
    shed from the eyelids, such as flaking associated
    with dandruff.

  • This can accumulate in your tear film

  • Abnormal tear film interferes with the healthy
    lubrication of your eyelids.

  • This can irritate your eyes and cause symptoms of
    dry eyes or excess tearing.
     

• Difficulty wearing contact lenses. 

  • Blepharitis can affect the amount of lubrication in your eyes, wearing contact lenses may be uncomfortable.
     

• Stye. 

  • A stye is an infection that develops near the base of the eyelashes.

  • The result is a painful lump on the edge (usually on the outside part) of your eyelid. A sty is usually most visible on the surface of the eyelid.
     

• Chalazion. 

  • A chalazion occurs when there's a blockage
    in one of the small oil glands at the margin
    of the eyelid, just behind the eyelashes.

  • The gland can become infected with bacteria,
    which causes a red, swollen eyelid.

  • Unlike a stye, a chalazion tends to be
    most prominent on the inside of the eyelid.
     

• Chronic pink eye. 

  • Blepharitis can lead to recurrent bouts of
    pink eye or conjunctivitis.
     

• Injury to the cornea. 

  • Constant irritation from inflamed eyelids or
    misdirected eyelashes may cause a sore
    to develop on your cornea.

  • Insufficient tearing could lead to corneal infection.
     

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Treatment for Blepharitis:

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• Treat blepharitis symptoms and signs using good hygienic practices.
   

• Clean the affected area with lid scrubs and warm compresses.
   

• Make an appointment with Dr. Nanda for the most advanced treatment options available using the Thermal 1-Touch device.

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