Blepharitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatments
Blepharitis is a common and treatable inflammation of the inner rim of the eyelid, usually affecting both eyes. Irritation, itching, burning, excessive tears, and crusty debris or skin flakes around the eyelashes may occur.
You may also have redness around the eyes and missing eyelashes. Common causes are bacterial eyelid infections, meibomian gland dysfunction, dry eyes, fungal eyelid infections, and parasites. Blepharitis can be a recurrent or chronic problem, and patients often have other associated skin conditions, such as rosacea and dandruff. Blepharitis is not contagious.
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How can I improve symptoms?
General cleansing of the eyelids with cotton balls and warm wet washcloths can help. Eye care, which should be performed twice daily, is key to blepharitis treatment. Start with 5 to 10 minutes of warm compress on closed eyelids, then clean the eyelid gently with a cloth or cotton ball, wiping along the lid margins in the direction of the lashes to help remove any pore-blocking dried oil deposits. Avoid wearing eye makeup or contact lenses while you're in a flare-up.
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Daily eyelid hygiene can help manage blepharitis. You can use commercially available eyelid cleansing wipes or lid scrubs, such as Ocusoft Lid Scrub or Systane Lid Wipes, to gently remove crusts, oil, and debris from around the eyelashes and eyelid margins.
Warm compresses can also help loosen debris and soften blocked oils along the eyelid margins. Artificial tears, lubricating eye gels, or ointments may help relieve dryness and irritation, especially in dry environments or around air conditioning and fans.
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Am I fit for work?
You are fit for work if you have blepharitis.
When should I see my doctor?
If your symptoms don't get better within 2 weeks or are recurrent, you should see your doctor or optometrist.
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