Blepharitis

What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a chronic condition that is characterised by inflammation of the eyelids, especially along the edges, leading to discomfort, itch, irritation and redness. It is a very common eye problem and is not limited to any particular age group. Blepharitis is not contagious and does not affect the vision of the affected person.

Who Is Affected by Blepharitis

Blepharitis can affect all age and ethnic groups.

How Does the Blepharitis Occur

Blepharitis commonly occurs when tiny oil glands located near the base of the eyelashes become clogged. This leads to inflammation and irritated and red eyes. Another type of blepharitis occurs when crust accumulates along the base of the eyelashes.

Causes Of Blepharitis

The exact cause for blepharitis is not known, but there are several factors that may lead to its development. Such common factors include:

Non-functional oil glands of the eyelids
Bacterial infection
Dandruff on the scalp and eyebrows (seborrheic dermatitis)
Allergic reactions to contact lens solution, eye medications, or eye makeup
Skin condition such as rosacea (facial redness)
Mites or lice on eyelashes

Symptoms of Blepharitis

The common symptoms of blepharitis are

red, watery eyes,
burning or itching sensation, and
red, swollen and greasy eyelids.

Other symptoms include

the dandruff-like flakes around the eyes,
crusty eyelids with sticking of eyelids on awakening.

Eyes may also be sensitive to light and patients may blink frequently.

A gritty, burning or stinging sensation in the eyes

Types of the Blepharitis

Anterior Blepharitis
Posterior Blepharitis
Mixed Blepharitis

Stages Of Blepharitis

Stage 1 Inflammation of lid margin with minimal to no scurf
Stage 2 Inflammation with mild scurf, lash follicle swelling
Stage 3 Inflammation with moderate scurf, lash follicle swelling, early lash misdirection
Stage 4 Inflammation with heavy scurf, lash follicle swelling, lash misdirection and ingrown lashes

How is Blepharitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of blepharitis involves the review of medical history and physical examination of the eyes.

Physical examination may include complete evaluation of the eyelids and their margins, functioning of oil glands, base of eyelashes, quantity and quality of tear production as well as surface of eyeball.

In some cases, your doctor may take a swab of the discharge from your eyelid or skin around your eyes to check for an allergy, or bacterial or fungal infection.

Treatment of blepharitis

Medical therapy for Blepharitis includes

Good Eyelid Hygiene
Warm Compresses and massage
Regular washing and cleaning of the affected area with warm water,
Use of medicated (antibiotics/steroid) eye drops or ointments.
In addition, your doctor may prescribe artificial tears or lubricating eye drops.

Addressing underlying conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, and bacterial infections, with medications or antibiotic therapy.

The best measure to prevent complications and relapse of blepharitis is to maintain good eyelid hygiene and routine cleaning of the eyelids.

Complications Associated with Blepharitis

Complications that may be associated with blepharitis are:

Loss or abnormal growth of eyelashes
Eyelid skin scarring
Dry or excessively wet eyes
Difficulty in wearing contact lenses
Cornea ulcer
Eye conditions such as stye (infection at the base of the eyelashes), chalazion (infection due to blockage of oil glands) and conjunctivitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of eyes)