Blepharitis Specialist

What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a medical term for eyelid inflammation. It’s a common condition that affects people of all ages. It usually affects both eyelids at once.

Blepharitis is an uncomfortable condition, and you may feel self-conscious about the way it looks. Thankfully, it’s not contagious and rarely causes lasting damage to your vision or eyelids. There are two types of blepharitis, categorized according to the part of the eyelids affected:

• Anterior blepharitis: Affecting the front edge of your eyelids, where your eyelashes attach

• Posterior blepharitis: Affecting the inner edge of your eyelids, where they touch your eyeballs

Symptoms of blepharitis include:

• Grittiness
• Burning sensations
• Excessive tear production
• Itchiness
• Red, swollen, or crusty eyelids
• Dry eyes

Blepharitis ranges in severity. Some people have only minor symptoms. However, it can still lead to more serious complications, including blurry vision, loss of eyelashes, eye irritation, and infections of other eye tissue.

What causes blepharitis?

The cause of blepharitis depends on the type:

Anterior blepharitis

Anterior blepharitis usually results when your eyelids react to the presence of bacteria or dandruff from your scalp and eyebrows. It also sometimes results from allergies or a mite infestation.

Posterior blepharitis

Posterior blepharitis results when the oil-producing glands at the base of your eyelashes become clogged. This allows bacteria to grow and irritate your eyes. Posterior blepharitis is also associated with skin conditions including rosacea and dandruff.

Often, you can prevent bacterial overgrowth in your eyelids with good hygiene.

How is blepharitis treated?

Usually, blepharitis treatment involves keeping your eyes clean and preventing crusts from forming on your eyes. Sometimes, a self-care routine of applying warm compresses to your eyelids, then gently cleansing them, is enough to clear up the inflammation. This may involve using a prescription eyelid cleanser, over-the-counter cleaning pads, or diluted baby shampoo.

In addition to cleansing your eyelids, you may need to use artificial tears to lubricate your eyes. It may also be necessary to address the underlying cause of your blepharitis. For example, if your case results from dandruff or mites, your Great Neck Opticians optometrist may recommend a shampoo to control these problems.

In some cases, you may need medications to improve blepharitis. These may include antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and drugs that affect your immune system.

To get treatment for blepharitis, call Great Neck Opticians or use the online booking tool.