Blepharitis

Overview

Blepharitis is a common inflammatory condition that affects the eyelids. It is usually a chronic problem, whose symptoms may disappear for various lengths of time before returning. In some cases, it may lead to styes, chalazia, conjunctivitis, or keratitis (inflammation of the cornea).

Most cases of blepharitis are related to an improper functioning of the oil glands of the eyelid (seborrheic blepharitis). The eyelid inflammation is often accompanied by an overall skin disorder (eczema, seborrhea, or rosacea). Other cases of blepharitis are caused by a bacterium called Staphylococcus ("Staph"). Rarer cases may be related to an allergic reaction.

Symptoms

• Gritty, itchy eyes

• Red and/or swollen eyelids

• Crusty, flaky skin on the eyelids

• Blurred vision due to excessive oil production

Treatment

The key to controlling blepharitis is to keep the eyelids and eyelashes clean. The following regimen should be done twice a day for approximately two weeks, then once a day for a week until symptoms are resolved. Some patients must perform this regimen daily.

1. Soak a clean washcloth in hot tap water (be sure it is not so hot as to burn your skin).

2. Hold the warm washcloth against your eyelids until it cools, then rewarm and repeat for 5-10 minutes.

3. Gently scrub the margins of the eyelids with a Q-tip soaked in a mixture of equal parts water and baby shampoo.

4. Rinse the lids with water.

In some cases, an eye drop or ointment will be prescribed to be used in addition to the cleansing regimen. In severe cases, oral antibiotics may be recommended for a prolonged period of time to attempt to alter the composition of the oil glands. However, these antibiotics may have side effects, including increased sensitivity to the sun and nausea.

Remember: blepharitis is a chronic condition. Like dandruff, there is no cure. However, treatment can control the symptoms.