Blepharitis

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What Is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a common condition that causes inflammation of the eyelids, particularly where the eyelashes grow. It can affect both upper and lower eyelids and often occurs in both eyes. While it is not usually vision-threatening, it can be chronic and very uncomfortable.

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There are two types of blepharitis: 

• The most common and less severe form is seborrheic blepharitis, and is often associated with dandruff of the scalp or skin conditions like acne. It usually appears as greasy flakes or scales around the base of the eyelashes and as a mild redness of the eyelid. Sometimes it may result in a roughness of the tissue that lines the inside of the eyelids or in styes. ​

• Ulcerative blepharitis is a less common, but more severe condition that may be characterized by matted, hard crusts around the eyelashes, which, when removed, leave small sores that may bleed or ooze. There may also be a loss of eyelashes, distortion of the front edges of the eyelids, and chronic watering of the eyes. 

 

What Are the Symptoms of Blepharitis?

Common signs and symptoms include:

• Red, swollen eyelids

• Itchy or burning eyes

• Crusts or flakes at the base of the eyelashes

• Watery or dry eyes

• Feeling of something in the eye (foreign body sensation)

• Light sensitivity

• Greasy or sticky eyelids

• Eyelash loss or abnormal growth

Symptoms may be worse in the morning and can come and go over time.

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What Causes Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is usually caused by one or more of the following:

• Bacterial infection (commonly Staphylococcus)

  • This can be due to many factors, including living in areas with alot of pollution like Los Angeles, poor lid hygiene, not removing makeup daily, and not following instruction on the use of false lashes.

• Seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff of the scalp or eyebrows)

• Clogged oil glands in the eyelids (meibomian gland dysfunction)

• Rosacea, a skin condition

• Allergies, including reactions to makeup or contact lens solutions

• Mite infestation (Demodex)

 

Who Gets Blepharitis?

Anyone can develop blepharitis regardless of age, sex, or race. But it is more common in people who:

• Have oily skin or dandruff

• Wear contact lenses

• Have rosacea or other skin conditions

• Are middle-aged or older adults

• Have a history of eye allergies or infections

• Live in areas in which the skin is more prone to be dry and areas where pollutants are in the air

 

How Is Blepharitis Diagnosed?

Diagnosis is usually based on:

• A medical history and description of symptoms

• A physical exam of the eyelids, lashes, and eyes using a special magnifying tool (slit-lamp exam)

• In some cases, your optometrist may take a sample of crust or oil for laboratory testing

• Every comprehensive eye examination at Visualeyes checks for blepharitis in every patient. 

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How Is Blepharitis Treated?

There is no cure, but blepharitis can usually be managed with good eyelid hygiene and other treatments:

 

Daily Eyelid Hygiene

• Warm compresses: To loosen crusts and open clogged oil glands (instructions here)

• Lid scrubs: Clean eyelids gently with over-the-counter lid cleansers (instructions here)

• Massage: Lightly massage the eyelids to express oil from the glands

 

Medications

• Antibiotic ointments or drops: For bacterial infections

• Steroid eye drops: For inflammation (short-term use only)

• Oral antibiotics: For more severe or recurring cases, especially if related to rosacea

 

Other Treatments

• Artificial tears: For dryness and irritation

• Omega-3 supplements: May help improve oil gland function

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Due to the different types and intensities of blepharitis, it is very important that you see an optometrist so that they can determine which treatment will be best for you. 

 

What Is the Prognosis of Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is often a chronic condition, meaning it may not go away completely. However, with consistent treatment and good hygiene, most people can control symptoms and prevent flare-ups.

If left untreated, complications may include:

• Recurrent styes or chalazions

• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

• Dry eye syndrome

• Eyelash loss or scarring of the eyelid margins

So make sure that they are having your yearly eye examinations so this can condition can be caught. 

 

When to See Our Optometrists

You should consult our optometrists if:

• Your symptoms worsen or do not improve with hygiene

• You have changes in vision

• Your eye becomes very red, painful, or swollen

Remember: Blepharitis is manageable. With proper care, you can keep your eyes comfortable and healthy.

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