Blepharitis
What is blepharitis?
Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid edge, specifically affecting the eyelash follicles and the glands between them. It is generally associated with a proliferation of excess bacteria that is normally found in the skin.
What causes it?
It is caused when the glands on the edge of the eyelid become blocked and the fat that normally drains away remains, creating an optimum environment for the proliferation of bacteria that releases toxins which irritate the ocular surface.
What are the symptoms?
The severity of blepharitis greatly varies from patient to patient. In very mild cases, it can even go unnoticed, resulting in only slight occasional discomfort in the eye. In more serious cases, it can affect vision. Symptoms that can be associated with blepharitis include:
- Inflammation, itching and redness of the edge of the eyelid
- The presence of dandruff-like scales and particles on the edge of the eyelid
- Tearing
- Foreign body sensation
How can it be prevented?
Blepharitis cannot be prevented, but regular cleaning of the eyelids and eyelashes in patients with a propensity for the condition can prove effective.
How can it be treated?
Treatment for blepharitis is medical. In mild cases, treatment only involves cleaning the eyelid with pH-neutral soaps. In some cases, antibiotic ointments can be used, and, in more serious cases, oral antibiotics are necessary. Although lubricating eye drops are not used to treat the condition, they can be applied during treatment to relieve irritation.
