Blepharitis is the chronic inflammation, or infection, of the eyelids and the eyelash follicles along the edge of the eyelid. Blepharitis, which is not contagious, affects patients of all ages.
Causes Of Blepharitis
There are several reasons for the occurrence of blepharitis, some of them are:
- Seborrheic dermatitis
- Acne
- Bacterial infection
- Allergic reaction
- Poor eyelid hygiene
- Rosacea
Symptoms Of Blepharitis
Symptoms of blepharitis include:
- Red or swollen eyes
- Red or swollen eyelids
- Frequent tearing of the eyes
- Eyelids that are crusty, flaky or scaly
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurry vision
- Burning sensation in the eyes
In more serious cases, sores can form when the crusting skin is removed, the eyelashes may fall out, the eyelids can become deformed, the infection can spread to the cornea, and patients often experience excessive tearing. Blepharitis can also cause styes, chalazions and problems with the tear film.
Diagnosis Of Blepharitis
The doctor will be able to diagnose blepharitis after a thorough examination of your eyes. Some of the items examined include:
- Examining the eye
- Evaluating the margins of the eye, the eyelashes and the oil glands
- Reviewing the medical history of the patient
- Testing eye pressure
Treatment Of Blepharitis
There is no cure for blepharitis. There is a tendency for the condition to recur making it difficult to treat. It can be controlled with proper hygiene of the eyelids. Treatment and preventative care for blepharitis involve a thorough but gentle cleaning of the eyelids, face and scalp. Warm compresses can be applied to loosen crust and gentle baby shampoo can help keep the eyelids clean. This treatment may be combined with antibiotics if a bacterial infection is determined to be the cause of the condition.
FAQs
Is Blepharitis Contagious?
Blepharitis is not contagious and cannot spread from person to person. However, it is still essential to maintain good hygiene. This helps to manage symptoms and prevent secondary infections.
Regularly clean your eyelids and avoid sharing personal items like towels and makeup. These simple steps can keep blepharitis under control.
Can Blepharitis Affect Vision?
Blepharitis can cause discomfort and temporary vision disturbances. You may experience blurred vision due to eyelid inflammation and irritation. However, this condition rarely leads to permanent vision loss.Â
If you notice significant or persistent vision changes, consult with an eye care professional at Southside Eye Care right away. They can conduct a thorough evaluation and identify the root cause of your symptoms.
Are There Any Home Remedies for Blepharitis?
Yes, there are several effective home remedies for blepharitis. Good eyelid hygiene is the cornerstone of proper care. Warm compresses can also loosen the crusts on the eyelids and unclog the oil glands.
Home remedies can help with symptom management. You should still see a medical professional, though. They can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend more long-term treatment options.Â
Is There a Cure for Blepharitis?
There is no permanent cure for blepharitis, but you can control symptoms with:
- Frequent eyelid cleanings
- Warm compresses
- Medications prescribed by an eye care professionalÂ
At Southside Eye Care, we provide personalized solutions. We always base our advice on your unique eye health needs.
Can Blepharitis Recur After Treatment?
Yes, blepharitis can recur after treatment. It is often a chronic condition that requires long-term management.Â
Even after symptoms improve, continue with good eyelid hygiene. Follow your eye care professional's recommendations to reduce the risk of recurrence as well.
Should I Avoid Wearing Contact Lenses if I Have Blepharitis?
Avoid wearing contact lenses during active blepharitis flare-ups. This condition can cause discomfort and increase the likelihood of secondary infections. Contact lenses can irritate the inflamed eyelids and exacerbate symptoms.
Once the condition is well-managed and symptoms are under control, you can likely wear contact lenses again. Always follow the guidance of your eye care professional at Southside Eye Care.
Can Makeup Worsen Blepharitis?
Yes, makeup can worsen blepharitis. Eye makeup can contribute to clogged oil glands and further irritate the eyelids. It is best to avoid products like mascara, eyeliner, and eyeshadow during flare-ups.Â
When symptoms are under control, use hypoallergenic and non-comedogenic products. Remove all makeup before bedtime, too. Replacing eye makeup when it expires can also prevent irritation and infection.
For personalized recommendations, consult with the specialists at Southside Eye Care.
Book A Consult With Dr. Keverline!
Southside Eye Care proudly serves Chesapeake, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk and Virginia Beach Virginia as well as the surrounding areas. For more information on Blepharitis call us at 757-484-0101 today or fill out our contact form for more information. Dr. Michael R. Keverline and our talented team of doctors look forward to serving you!
