What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is known as inflammation of the eyelids.

Types and its causes
1) Anterior blepharitis

When it involves the outside front of the eyelid , where the eyelashes are attached It is called anterior blepharitis.

It may be caused by
a.) Bacteria
b.)Scalp dandruff ( eg. Seborrheic dermatitis)
c.) Allergy
d.) Psoriasis

2) Posterior blepharitis

If blepharitis involved the inner eyelid, it is called posterior blepharitis.
It may be caused by
a.)It may be dysfunction of the oil (i.e. meibomian) glands in the eyelid.
b.)Acne rosacea
c.) Scalp dandruff (eg. Seborrheic dermatitis)
4) Allergy

Sign and Symptoms

1)The eyelids are reddened, swollen and slightly warm often with cruisty debris.
2)Burning, tearing, sensitivity to light, feeling of foreign body in the eye (s).
3)The eyelids may stick together.
4)Watery or mucous discharge,pain and blurry vision maybe feel.

It’s contagious?
Blepharitis is not contagious.

Who’s at risk?

The people who have….

1) Scalp dandruff
2) Dry skin
3)Acne rosacea
4) Contact allergy
5) Diabetes
6) Poor hygiene
7) Who’s sensitive to chemical irritant or cosmetic makeup.

Home remedies
1) Apply frequent warm, moist compresses
2) Clean the affected area with baby shampoo and a wet cotton ball.
3) practice good hygiene of the face and scalp.
4) Make sure all make up is removed daily.
5) Avoid any irritant chemical contact.

When to see medical care
1)Pain is increasing
2) Vision is worsening
3) Swelling is increasing
4)The eyelids become hot to touch
5)A condition is not getting better within a week despite self care.
6) There is blistering or rash or both on the eyelid.
7)There is development of bumps or growth on the eyelid that does not respond to the warm compresses.

Treatment
1) Your doctor may prescribed steroids eye drops or eye ointment to reduce inflammation.
2) Your doctor may also prescribed lubricant eye drops to stop irritation caused by dry eyes.
3) Your doctor may also be prescribed antibiotics eye drops or ointment and oral medicine.