Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelash follicles along the edge of the eyelid. An overgrowth of the bacteria normally found on the skin is usually to blame. Allergies and lice may also cause blepharitis, but these causes are less common.
People who have blepharitis often have too much oil being produced by glands along the base of the eyelashes. This excessive oil production attracts too much bacterial growth along the lid margin. Blepharitis may be linked to recurrent styes, eye infections, and eye dryness issues. A person is more likely to develop blepharitis if they already have a skin condition called seborrheic dermatitis affecting the face or scalp.
Symptoms associated with blepharitis include:
- Eye or eyelid redness
- Crustiness along the lid margin
- Swollen eyelids
- Itchiness of the eyes or eyelids
- Gritty sensation when blinking
An examination of the eyelids during an eye examination is usually enough to diagnose blepharitis.
Proper treatment of blepharitis includes careful, daily cleaning of the eyelid margins to remove the extra oils that cause the bacterial overgrowth. Your eye care provider might recommend using baby shampoo or special cleansers. Antibiotic ointment may also be helpful. Continued attention to lid cleanliness may be required to prevent repeated problems, and with time the eyelids will become less red and more comfortable.
Dr. Bradley J. Wicklund - Optometrist
20/20 Visions, LLC
100 Carr Road
Plymouth, WI 53073
(920) 893-3937
bwicklund@20-20visions.com
www.20-20visions.com
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