Blepharitis  

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Blepharitis is a chronic or long-term inflammation of the eyelids and eyelashes. It affects people of all ages. At Lawrenceville Family Eyecare, we care for patients with blepharitis and can help with managing the symptoms. 

 

What Causes Blepharitis? 

Some of the most common causes of blepharitis are: 

  • Poor eyelid hygiene 
  • Excess oil produced by the glands in the eyelids 
  • Bacterial infection (often staphylococcal) 
  • Allergic reaction 

 

There are two ways in which blepharitis may appear. The most common and least severe, seborrheic blepharitis, is often associated with dandruff of the scalp or skin conditions like acne. It usually appears as greasy flakes or scales around the base of the eyelashes and as a mild redness of the eyelid. Blepharitis may also result in a roughness of the (normally smooth) tissue that lines the inside of the eyelids. 

 

Ulcerative blepharitis is a less common, but more severe condition that may be characterized by matted, hard crusts around the eyelashes, which, when removed, leave small sores that may bleed or ooze. There may also be a loss of eyelashes, distortion of the front edges of the eyelids, and chronic tearing. In severe cases, the cornea, the transparent covering of the front of the eyeball, may also become inflamed.  

 

How Is Blepharitis Treated? 

 

In many cases, good eyelid hygiene and a regular cleaning routine may control blepharitis. This routine can include: 

  • Frequent scalp and face washing 
  • Warm soaks of the eyelids 
  • Eyelid scrubs 

 

In cases where bacterial infection is the cause, eyelid hygiene may be combined with various antibiotics and other medications. If the cause is an allergic reaction, the source of the reaction (eye makeup, for example) should be removed. 

 

Blepharitis is usually not serious and can often be treated easily. However, if left untreated, it can be very uncomfortable and unattractive and lead to more serious problems. Contact our office to learn more about how we can help you treat blepharitis and achieve optimal eye health.