Blepharitis

What Is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a chronic inflammation of the eyelids, particularly affecting the area where the eyelashes grow. It a prevalent condition that can cause discomfort and may be associated with other eye issues like dry eye syndrome and meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

Types of Blepharitis

1. Anterior Blepharitis: Affects the outer front edge of the eyelid where eyelashes are attached.
2. Posterior Blepharitis: Involves the inner edge of the eyelid that comes into contact with the eyeball, often linked to MGD.

Many individuals experience a combination of both types.

Causes

Blepharitis can result from various factors, including:

● Bacterial Infections: Overgrowth of bacteria on the eyelids.

● Skin Conditions: Such as seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff) and rosacea.

● Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): Blockage or malfunction of the oil glands in the eyelids.

● Demodex Mites: Microscopic mites that inhabit hair follicles.

● Allergic Reactions: To eye makeup, contact lens solutions, or environmental allergens

Poor eyelid hygiene can exacerbate these issues, leading to inflammation.

Symptoms

Common symptoms include:

● Red, swollen, or itchy eyelids

● A gritty or burning sensation in the eyes

● Crusting or flaking at the base of the eyelashes

● Sensitivity to light

● Excessive tearing or dry eyes

● Blurred vision

● Loss of eyelashes or misdirected lashes

Diagnosis

An eye care professional will:
● Examine the Eyelids and Eyelashes: Using magnification to look for signs of
inflammation, crusting, or mites.
● Assess Tear Production: To determine if dry eye is present.
● Evaluate Meibomian Gland Function: To check for blockages or dysfunction.

In some cases, additional tests may be conducted to rule out other conditions.

Treatment Options

While blepharitis is often a chronic condition, symptoms can be managed effectively with proper care:

1. Eyelid Hygiene

● Warm Compresses: Apply a warm, moist cloth to closed eyelids for 5–10 minutes to loosen crusts and unclog oil glands.

● Lid Scrubs: Gently clean the eyelid margins using diluted baby shampoo or over-the-counter eyelid cleansers

● Lid Massage: After warm compresses, gently massage the eyelids to express oil from the meibomian glands.

2. Medications

● Antibiotic Ointments or Drops: Prescribed to reduce bacterial infection.

● Steroid Eye Drops: Used short-term to decrease inflammation.

● Oral Antibiotics: For more severe or persistent cases, particularly when associated with rosacea.

It’s essential to use medications as directed by an eye care professional.

3. In-Office Treatments

● BlephEx: A procedure that uses a specialized device to exfoliate the eyelid margins,removing debris and bacteria.

● Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy: Targets inflammation and improves meibomian gland function, especially beneficial for patients with ocular rosacea.

4. Lifestyle and Home Remedies

● Omega-3 Supplements: May help improve gland function and reduce inflammation.

● Avoid Eye Makeup: During flare-ups to prevent further irritation.

● Manage Underlying Conditions: Such as dandruff or rosacea, which can contribute to blepharitis.

Potential Complications

If left untreated, blepharitis can lead to:

● Chronic Discomfort: Persistent irritation and redness.
● Eyelash Problems: Loss or misdirection of eyelashes.
● Skin Scarring: Around the eyelids.
● Secondary Infections: Such as styes or chalazia.

● Conjunctivitis: Inflammation of the eye’s surface.
● Corneal Damage: Due to prolonged inflammation.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Consult an eye care professional if you experience:

● Persistent redness or swelling of the eyelids
● Painful or tender eyelids
● Vision changes
● Frequent styes or chalazia

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and improve quality of life.

References:

● Blepharitis | Johns Hopkins Medicine
● Blepharitis: What’s Behind Your Red, Itchy Eyes | UHealth Collective
● Ocular Surface Disease | Bascom Palmer Eye Institute

AMERICAN EYE CARE CENTER