Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids. It is a common eye condition that makes your eyelids red, irritated, swollen and itchy. Blepharitis usually affects both eyes along the edges of the eyelids. It can cause crusty flakes that resemble dandruff on your eyelashes. For a lot of people, blepharitis can be very uncomfortable. However, it is not contagious and typically does not cause lasting damage to the eyes. Often, it can be treated by washing your eyelids every four to six hours. Research shows that if you have oily skin you can be at a higher risk of developing blepharitis. If you encounter any symptoms of blepharitis visit the best Eye Specialist in lahore to discuss the treatment.
There are two types of blepharitis. You can either have one or both the types at the same time.
- Anterior Blepharitis
This affects the outside of your eye, where your lashes are attached to the eyelid. Typically, anterior blepharitis happens because of the bacteria on your skin, or the dandruff from your scalp or eyebrows. Other rare causes include allergies, or tiny mites.
- Posterior Blepharitis
This affects the outside of the inner edge of the eyelid, which is the part that touches your eye. Posterior blepharitis happens when the oil glands in your eyelids are clogged. Research shows that skin conditions such as rosacea and scalp dandruff can be a cause for this type of blepharitis.
Symptoms
Blepharitis is a very common condition and in most cases, it does not go away completely. A survey of ophthalmologists and optometrists reveals that nearly half the people they see show symptoms of blepharitis. It affects both males and females equally. Symptoms from blepharitis are mostly manageable, but appear to be worse in the morning. They include:
- Feeling like something is in your eye
- Burning or stinging eyes
- Eyelids that appear greasy
- Itchy eyes
- Watery eyes
- More frequent blinking
- Sensitivity to light
- Tears that are foamy, or have small bubbles in them
- Red and swollen eyes or eyelids
- Crusty eyelids or eyelashes when you wake up
- Dry eyes
- Eyelids sticking
- Flaking of the skin around the eyes
In some cases, blepharitis can also cause more serious problems. These include:
- Blurry vision that usually improves with blinking
- Swelling on other parts of the eye, such as the cornea
- Eyelashes that fall out
- Eyelashes that grow in the wrong direction, that is toward your eyes; trichiasis
Causes
Here are some common causes of anterior blepharitis:
This causes inflammation of the facial skin, which can include your eyelids.
Allergies to contact lens solution, makeup, or eye drops can lead to irritation of the eyes.
Dry tear ducts can alter bacterial resistance, which can result in infection.
Dandruff flakes can irritate eyelids, leading to inflammation.
- Lice or Mites in Eyelashes
This condition is known as demodicosis. Lice or mites can block eyelash follicles and glands in your eyes, leading to blepharitis.
The causes for posterior blepharitis also include acne rosacea and dandruff. But another different cause is:
- Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
When the oil from the meibomian glands stops flowing freely, you can develop dry eyes, which can result in inflammation and infection.
Research shows that poor hygiene can be a cause for developing blepharitis too, but there have to be other causes present. Similarly, you can be at a higher risk of developing blepharitis if you:
- Have diabetes
- Wear contact lenses
- Work or live in dry environments
- Take certain drugs, like those for cancer treatment
- Are going through hormonal or menopausal changes
Treatment
The best way to treat blepharitis is to keep your eyelids clean, and crust-free. However, if your symptoms don't seem to improve despite good hygiene, make an appointment with an Eye Specialist in karachi. They will observe your eyelids to determine the cause of blepharitis and then treat it accordingly. Here are some treatment options they may recommend:
Your doctor may prescribe steroid eye drops to regulate and treat redness, swelling and irritation.
- Medications that Fight Infection
If your blepharitis is caused by bacteria, your doctor will prescribe antibiotic eye drops, pills and ointments.
- Treating Other Health Issues
If you have conditions such as rosacea or dandruff, treating them can help improve blepharitis.
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