Blepharitis

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids. It is a very common condition that can be associated with a low-grade bacterial infection (staphylococcal blepharitis) or a generalized skin condition (seborrheic blepharitis).

Blepharitis is seen most commonly in adults. Factors believed to contribute to blepharitis include abnormalities in oil gland function and an alteration in bacterial colonies that normally live on the skin. Blepharitis is not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another.

Blepharitis is an infection of the eyelids. It is very common, and it is a permanent condition. Once it is present, it will always be present, but the severity may change over time. In some cases, the symptoms can disappear for long time periods-months or years, before returning.

There are two main causes of blepharitis: staphylococcus bacteria and seborrhea. The attack of staphylococcus bacteria commonly begins in childhood and continues throughout adulthood. Common symptoms include collar scales on lashes, crusting, and chronic redness at the lid margin. Dilated blood vessels, loss of lashes, sties, and chalazia also occur. Treatment is very important. In addition to eliminating the redness and soreness, treatment can prevent potential infection and scarring of the cornea and conjunctiva. Seborrhea is secondary to overactive glands causing greasy, waxy scales to accumulate along the eyelid margins. Seborrhea may be a part of an overall skin disorder that affects other areas. Hormones, nutrition, general physical condition and stress are factors in seborrhea.

Blepharitis is a condition that must be managed by diligent attention to personal hygiene on a regular basis. Examination by an eye doctor is necessary to confirm the proper diagnosis and treatment for this condition. Then, it's up to you to stay with the treatment plan and keep your eyelids healthy.

Taking care of your diet can help you heal as soon as possible. Taking fresh fruits and vegetables is very helpful and drinking plenty of water also helps.

Medication alone is not sufficient; keeping the eyelids clean is essential. Warm, moist compresses can also help relieve the symptoms of blepharitis when used in conjunction with regular eyelid cleansing. Strict lid hygiene is very important in treating blepharitis. The following regimen may be useful: Fill a small glass with warm water and add three drops of baby shampoo. Wrap your finger with a clean washcloth, and with eyes closed, gently scrub each eyelid for two minutes. Rinse with cool tap water and dry gently with a clean towel. Use medications as directed. Treatments used for oily scalps and anti-dandruff shampoos may also be helpful in treating seborrheic cases, but should not be allowed to get into the eye. Once the initial phase is controlled, lid hygiene (as described above) and the limited use of antibiotic ointments may be sufficient to control blepharitis. In more severe cases, various antibiotics and even steroid preparations may be necessary to eliminate the condition.

As with all eye conditions, stress only increases and aggravates any ailment. Relaxation techniques are best as well as therapy.