Blepharitis is defined as irritation of the eyelids. It is a prevalent form of eye ailment typically caused by bacteria or skin conditions such as acne rosacea and dandruff. In some cases, it is caused by allergies.
This is a long-lasting ailment that usually comes and goes over time. Even though the condition does not lead to blindness, it can result to reddened, irritated eyes.
What are the signs?
The indications of blepharitis generally include the following:
- Swollen, reddened and itchy eyelids
- Scaly eyelashes
- Formation of crust that cause the eyelids to stick together upon waking up in the morning
- In case crusts enters the eye, it can cause a sensation of a foreign object in the eye or grittiness
Management of blepharitis
It is important to note that blepharitis could not be cured but treated with good eyelid hygiene. If not correctly treated, the condition can become a serious ailment that involves scarring or damage to the eye tissues.
If the individual is diagnosed with blepharitis, the following measures can help treat and cleanse the affected eye such as:
- With a clean towel or washcloth that has been soaked in warm water, squeeze out the excess water and apply over closed eyelids for around 5 minutes. Re-wet as needed to maintain the desired temperature to allow softening of the crusts and loosen any oily debris.
- Place the damp, warm towel or washcloth over the index finger with a diluted solution of 50% mild soap or baby shampoo.
- Clean one eye at a time. Close the eye being cleansed and rub the washcloth or finger over the eyelashes and lid margins several times in horizontal strokes.
- Thoroughly rinse with a clean, warm washcloth or towel and pat dry.
If the doctor determines that blepharitis is triggered by bacteria, a topical antibiotic or topical antibiotic/corticosteroid combination is applied on the base of the eyelashes for 1-2 weeks.