Overview
Blepharitis (blef-uh-RYE-tus) is a general term for an
inflammation of the eyelid and eyelashes. It is among
the most common and stubborn ophthalmic conditions,
usually resulting from poor eyelid hygiene, a low-grade
bacterial infection (usually staphylococcal), an
allergic reaction, and/or abnormalities in oil gland
function such as plugged glands or over-production.
Occasionally, it results from lice infestation.
Although usually not serious or causing long-term
damage to vision, blepharitis can be difficult to treat
and is a chronic problem for some. Those most
susceptible include people with other skin conditions
such as rosacea, acne, eczema, seborrheic dermatitis,
psoriasis, oily skin or dandruff, as well as those
infected with the herpes simplex virus. Chronic cases
may also be related to exposure to chemical fumes,
smoke, smog and other irritants or reactions to
medications.
Blepharitis is also a cause or effect of several
ocular conditions, including dry eye, chalazion,
conjunctivitis and keratitis, and can result in the loss
of or ingrown eyelashes. It is not contagious and
although seen more commonly in adults, it also affects
children.
Like some other skin condition, blepharitis can be
controlled but not cured. The main goals in treating it
is to reduce the bacteria counts along the lid margin
and open plugged glands -- accomplished with good eyelid
hygiene and regularly applying a warm washcloth or other
form of heat to eyelids.
Symptoms
The most common symptoms include redness of the lid
margins and the eye and/or mucus or crusty matter on the
eyelids or on lashes. These symptoms tend to be worse
upon awakening, and may wax and wane throughout the day.
Other symptoms include:
- Greasy flakes or scales on the eyelids or at the
base of eyelashes
- A sensation that something is in the eye when
blinking
- Swollen eyes
- Itching or burning
- Missing or ingrown lashes
- Scarring of the eyelid margins or small, oozing
sores at the base of “missing” eyelashes
- Irritation or breakdown of the skin along the
edges of the eyelids
- Excessive tearing
- Sensitivity to light
Prevention
Good eyelid hygiene is essential for preventing
recurrences and severity. Besides regularly washing your
hands, entire face and scalp with soap/shampoo, place a
clean washcloth that’s been moistened in warm water on
your eyelids for about 5 minutes several times a week.
Those with especially oily skin may also benefit from
weekly eyelid “scrubs” with a tearless baby shampoo
diluted in warm water. This helps decrease the amount of
flaking skin and oil in the area. After washing hands
well, mix about ½ cap of baby shampoo in about 6 ounces
of water and closing one eye, use a clean washcloth
(wrapped around your index finger) or cotton-tipped
applicator eye to rub the solution back and forth across
the eyelashes and the edge of the eyelid. Rinse that eye
with clear, cool water, and repeat with the other eye,
using a different washcloth or applicator.
Treatment
Preventative measures such as eyelid soaks and scrubs
are often used to treat blepharitis and remove crusts.
During outbreaks, eyelid soaks should be extended to
15-20 minutes, three-four times a day, and scrubs should
be done at least several times a week (and perhaps
daily). Your eyecare provider may also recommend
substituting diluted baby shampoo with commercial eyelid
cleansers such as OCuSOFT® Lid Scrub and prescribe you
an antibiotic such as doxycycline. |
