What is blepharitis?
Blepharitis is a common but painful condition that causes one (or both) eyelids to become inflamed. Usually, blepharitis occurs due to clogged oil glands, but it can also point to a more serious underlying health problem.
Without early diagnosis and treatment, blepharitis may become chronic. Fortunately, there are a variety of at-home and prescription measures of care that can provide significant relief.
What are the symptoms of blepharitis?
Common symptoms of blepharitis include:
- Watery eyes
- Red eyes
- Itchy eyelids
- Crusted eyelids
- Frequent blinking
- Eyelids that appear greasy
- Blurred vision
If you have blepharitis, you might also experience sensitivity to light and increased blinking.
What causes blepharitis?
The leading cause of blepharitis is clogged oil glands. There are several other ailments that may trigger the condition, including dandruff of the scalp and eyebrows, rosacea, dry eyes, mites, or lice. You might also develop blepharitis due to allergies. That’s especially true if you wear contact lenses or makeup.
Does blepharitis increase my risk of other health problems?
Without diagnosis and treatment, blepharitis increases your risk of more serious health problems, including:
- Eyelash problems
- Eyelid skin problems
- Sty
- Chronic pink eye
- Injury to the cornea
Blepharitis might also affect your eyes’ ability to produce tears. Many people with blepharitis experience excess tearing or dry eyes.
How is blepharitis diagnosed?
To diagnose blepharitis, the team at Marano Eye Care reviews your medical history, asks about your symptoms, and conducts a comprehensive eye exam. If these measures don’t pinpoint the underlying cause, the team might swab your eyelids. They send your sample to a laboratory that analyzes it for bacteria, fungi, or evidence of an allergy.
How is blepharitis treated?
Treatment for blepharitis typically involves a combination of self-care measures and prescription medication. The team at Marano Eye Care might recommend washing your eyes or using warm compresses. You might also benefit from:
- Medications to fight infection
- Medications to control inflammation
- Medications to support your body’s immune system
- Treatments for underlying skin problems like dermatitis
To receive treatment for blepharitis, request an appointment at Marano Eye Care. Book online, or call the nearest location to speak with a member of the administrative staff today.
