 Blepharitis is chronic or long term inflammation of the eyelids and eyelashes. It affects people of all ages. Among the most common causes of blepharitis are poor eyelid hygiene; excessive oil produced by the glands in the eyelid; a bacterial infection (often staphylococcal); or an allergic reaction. Blepharitis usually causes burning, itching and irritation of the lids. In severe cases, it may also cause styes, irritation and inflammation of the cornea (keratitis) and conjunctiva (conjunctivitis). Some patients have no symptoms at all.
Blepharitis, while invariably chronic, comes in three forms: Staphylococcal, Seborrheic, and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). It is defined as the chronic inflammation of the eyelids, and is one of the most commonly diagnosed eye disorders today. It is a leading cause of redness, tearing, and overall discomfort. The most common associated symptoms are Chronic Red Eye, Dry Eye, Marginal Ulcers, and Phlyctenules.
Staphylococcal Blepharitis
Staphylococcal Blepharitis is caused by the 'Staph' bacteria, and is most often characterized by dense crusts around a patient's eyelashes. These formations may cause the patient discomfort when trying to open their eyes in the morning. With this form of Blepharitis, the patient can experience a loss of eyelashes, formation of a sty, or upon removal of the crusts a possibility for small ulcers. The traditional treatment for this form of Blepharitis is antibiotic ointment, sometimes offset with warm compresses and enhanced care in regards to lid hygiene. In extreme cases, steroids may be used for marginal ulcers.
Seborrheic Blepharitis
Seborrheic Blepharitis exhibits similar symptoms but appears differently on the patient's eye. Where Staph based Blepharitis is dry and crust-like, Seborrheic Blepharitis is greasy and akin to scales. Patients suffering from this form of Blepharitis also suffer from Sebhorrheic Dermatitis. The standard treatment here is extra care in lid hygiene through use of lid scrubs and warm compresses.
Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
A working Meibomian Gland produces oily secretions which form an integral part of the tear film. When this gland fails to function properly, it can secrete abnormal oily substances. This causes an erratic tear film and can result in eye irritation, as well as chronic dry eye. The treatment for this form of Blepharitis is lid scrubs, antibiotic ointment, and sometimes tetracycline, taken orally.
It is important to note that Blepharitis is a chronic condition, and patients diagnosed with it must take extra care to keep their eyelids as clean as possible, as frequently as possible. At the Benjamin Eye Institute, we will be happy to give you the easiest, most convenient and effective ways to accomplish this.
Signs and Symptoms
| • | Sandy, itchy eyes. | | • | Red and/or swollen eyelids. | | • | Crusty, flaky skin on the eyelids. | | • | Dandruff. |
Detection and Diagnosis
Blepharitis is detected during a routine examination of the eyelids and lashes using a slit lamp microscope.
The key to controlling blepharitis is to keep the eyelids and eyelashes clean.
Directions for a Warm Soak Of The Eyelids
| 1. | Wash your hands thoroughly. | | 2. | Moisten a clean washcloth with warm water. | | 3. | Close your eyes and place a washcloth on your eyelids for about 5 minutes. | | 4. | Repeat several times daily. |
Directions for an Eyelid Scrub
| 1. | Wash your hands thoroughly. | | 2. | Mix warm water and a small amount of shampoo that does not irritate the eye (baby shampoo) or use a commercially prepared lid scrub solution recommended by your eye doctor. | | 3. | Close one eye and using a clean wash cloth (a different one for each eye), rub the solution back and forth across the eyelashes and the edge of the eyelid. | | 4. | Rinse with clear, cool water. | | 5. | Repeat with the other eye. |
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