Blepharitis Symptoms

Blepharitis is one of the most common eye diseases characterized by the inflammation of the eyelids. It can affect people of all age groups, and can be caused due to bacteria, scalp dandruff, allergies or skin disorders. This health condition is not contagious, but some of the symptoms can cause severe discomfort. There are two types - anterior blepharitis (the anterior or outside edges of the eyelids, eyelashes are attached, is affected) and posterior blepharitis (the inner edges of the eyelids,which come in contact with eyeball, are affected).

Anterior Blepharitis

Causes

• This is caused mainly due to staphylococcal bacteria.
• Allergies caused due to chemical irritants, certain medications or allergies caused due to some animals.
• A skin disease called psoriasis which is characterized by red, scaly patches on the scalp and ears.
• A skin disorder called seborrheic dermatitis, which causes red, itchy and scaly skin on the scalp and face.

Symptoms

• Thickening of the eyelid margins.
• Sticking together of the eyelids.
• Loss of eyelashes.
• Tearing and itching of eyelids.
• Redness and swelling of the eyes and lining of the eyelids.
• Blurred vision.

Posterior Blepharitis

Causes

• The main cause of posterior blepharitis is blockage or inflammation of the meibomian glands in the eyelids.
• Dysfunction of meibomian glands or oil glands causes dry eyes and scaling on the eyelids.
• Shedding of dead skin of the scalp.
• Rosacea which is characterized by skin redness, burning and itching.

Symptoms

• Burning sensation in the eye.
• Feeling of presence of a foreign body in the eye.
• Swollen eyelids and redness of the eyes.
• Mucous discharge from the eyes.
• Blurred vision and pain in the eyes.
• Excessive tear production.

Professional Diagnosis

If you observe any of the above symptoms, you must consult an ophthalmologist immediately. These symptoms are obvious and help in diagnosis wherein the eyelid structure and skin damage would be examined using a slit-lamp microscope. After examining, the culture samples are collected and sent for proper study in the laboratory, to decide on the proper treatment. If it is related to a skin disease, a dermatologist's help may be sought.

Treatment Options

If bacteria is the main cause/reason, doctors will prescribe oral antibiotics along with eye drops and ointments for the eyelids. When skin disorder like rosacea skin is the main cause, treatment is focused on getting rid of this skin disorder first. Dermatologists treat blepharitis on the lines of seborrhoeic dermatitis treatment by some anti-inflammatory and mild steroids. In case of allergies, avoiding contact with the allergen like chemicals, smoke or animals is necessary. Getting rid of dandruff by use of anti-dandruff shampoos on the scalp can also help.

Alternative Treatment Methods

Using warm and moist compresses on the eye, thrice a day, can help to lessen the itching and pain. Even gently cleaning the eyelids with a mixture of water and baby shampoo can help to get rid of scales. Always wash your hands and rinse the eyes with clean water. Avoid using contact lenses and wearing makeup during the period of blepharitis treatment. Artificial tear solutions can also be used in some cases to provide relief to the eyes.

Blepharitis can be effectively treated with a proper treatment. But taking proper eye care and following good hygiene can help to avoid or ease blepharitis. Early diagnosis can also help; it will help you get rid of the discomfort and pain, and thus aid a fast recovery.