BLEPHARITIS
Definition
Causes
Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Blepharitis is the inflammation of the lid margins. This can cause dandruff-like flakes or oily particles wrapped at the base of the eyelashes. This is very common among people who have oily skin or dandruff.
It is not contagious and not harmful to the eyes.
CAUSES
Often at times, blepharitis happens when one have too much bacteria on the base of lid margin. Bacterias such as staphylococci, moraxella etc.
Blepharitis could also be caused by irritated or clogged oil glands in the eyelids.
SYMPTOMS
-Irritation
-Itching
-Occasional watery eyes
-Mild photophobia
-Burning sensation
-Grittiness
Note: Symptoms are often worse in the morning
SIGNS
-Yellow crusts seen on the roots of the lid
-Misdirected lashes
-Red and thickened lid margins
-Swelling of the parts of the eye
TREATMENT
- Lid hygiene- This is very essential and should include ;
Warm compress- wet a clean cloth with warm water and wring it out until damp. Place the cloth over the close eyes for at least 1 minutes. Repeat this for 5-10 minutes in order to help loosen the flakes and keep oil glands from clogging.
Dipping cotton buds in dilute baby shampoo ie dilute shampoo in warm water, can be used to clean the eyelid /eyelashes.
- Antibiotic eye ointment should be applied on the lid margins after proper cleaning of the lids.
- Ocular lubricants and tropical steroids can be used to reduce symptoms as well.
- Treating underlying infections is advised too.
CONCLUSION; Long standing blepharitis can lead to other eye problems such as stye, chalazion, dry eye, damaged cornea etc.
Always visit your eye doctor if you notice any change on your eyelids for proper diagnosis and management.