Blepharitis Symptoms and Treatment

WHAT IS BLEPHARITIS?

Blepharitis is a generic term for inflammation of the eyelids, usually surrounding the lid margin and eyelashes.  It is a very common condition that may be associated with a low grade bacterial infection or a generalized skin condition.

WHAT CAUSES BLEPHARITIS?

The two most common causes are bacteria and scalp dandruff.  Factors believed to contribute to blepharitis include abnormalities in oil gland reduction and an alteration in bacterial colonies that normally live on the skin.

WHO IS MOST LIKELY TO GET BLEPHARITIS?

Blepharitis is most common in adults. It is not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another.

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF BLEPHARITIS?

The most common symptoms include, itching, burning, scratchiness, foreign body sensation, excessive tearing, crusty scaling around the eyelashes, especially when you first wake up.  In some instances, Dry Eye symptoms can be associated with blepharitis.

HOW IS BLEPHARITIS DETECTED?

Your eye care specialist will be able to diagnose blepharitis by a careful examination of the eyelid margins.

HOW CAN BLEPHARITIS BE TREATED?

The most effective and important treatment is improved eyelid hygiene.  This alone may enable you to control symptoms and prevent further complications. Your doctor may prescribe applying warm compresses to the eyelids to soothe the discomfort. Another option for prevention and treatment might be the use of a lid scrub foam called Ocusoft, which can be purchased at any of our convenient locations. In severe cases you may require a prescription for antibiotics or lubricating ointments.

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