Blepharitis vs. Dry Eye: How to Tell the Difference

If your eyes constantly feel irritated, gritty, or watery, you might assume you have dry eye, but blepharitis could be the real culprit. These two conditions share many symptoms, making them easy to confuse. However, understanding the differences is key to getting the right treatment and lasting relief. Here’s how to tell them apart.

At Southside Eye Care, patients benefit from a personalized, patient-focused approach to vision health, supported by highly trained technicians certified by JCHAPO and doctors skilled in diagnosing and treating conditions such as blepharitis and dry eye.

What Is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelid margins, usually caused by bacteria, clogged oil glands, or skin conditions like rosacea. It often leads to redness, crusting, and flakes around the eyelashes, along with a burning sensation. Many people also experience swollen eyelids or a feeling that something is stuck in the eye.

One of the hallmark signs of blepharitis is visible debris along the lashes or oily buildup around the eyelid. Symptoms tend to be worse in the morning because the eyelid glands become stagnant overnight.

What Is Dry Eye?

Dry eye occurs when your tears evaporate too quickly or when your eyes don’t produce enough tears. This leads to scratchy sensations, light sensitivity, and blurry vision that often improves with blinking. Aging, hormonal changes, medication side effects, or prolonged screen time can cause dry eye.

While dry eye and blepharitis feel similar, dry eye symptoms tend to worsen throughout the day, particularly during activities like reading or computer work.

Key Differences to Look For

• Location of symptoms: Blepharitis affects the eyelids, causing redness, crusting, and irritation at the lash line. Dry eye primarily affects the surface of the eye itself.
• Timing: Blepharitis tends to worsen in the morning, while dry eye often worsens throughout the day.
• Appearance: Flakes, debris, and swollen eyelids point toward blepharitis; a lack of tearing or excessive watering suggests dry eye.

Can You Have Both?

Yes, many people do. Blepharitis can clog the oil glands that help prevent tear evaporation, leading to or worsening dry eye.

Discover Eye Relief From Blepharitis or Dry Eye in Chesapeake, VA

If at-home remedies like warm compresses or artificial tears aren’t providing relief, it’s time to schedule an eye exam. Call us at 757-484-0101 to schedule an appointment.