What is Blepharitis?

January 05, 2017

What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids near the eyelashes. It is usually chronic. It is a common condition and needs to be treated, especially to prevent more serious infections.

What are the symptoms and signs?
  • Redness of the eyelids and lid margins
  • Irritation and soreness of the eyes
  • Sensation of 'something in the eye'
  • Grittiness, burning, itching, and dryness
  • Discharge from the lids
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Swelling of the eyelids
  • Greasy appearance of the eyelid margins
  • Flakes of skin like dandruff
  • Loss of eyelashes
  • Small ulcers on the eyelid
  • Crusting and bleeding (if severe)
What is the treatment?
  • Debris on the eyelids should be gently cleaned with warm water or a weak solution of sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) or 1 in 10 dilution of baby shampoo
  • An alternative is to bathe the eyes under the shower for a couple of minutes, gently wiping the top and bottom of the eyelids where they meet the eyelashes with the tips of the fingers.
  • A further alternative is to apply warm water or saline soak with gauze for 10 minutes, followed by bathing.
  • Daily treatment for 2-3 months is expected.
What kind of medication is needed?
  • Tear supplements can be helpful (such as Systane single dose, Bion Tears and Refresh)
  • Occasionally stronger treatments are required.