Causes & Treatments
Inflamed, itchy, irritated eyelids, sometimes accompanied by a red eye, are symptoms of lid margin disease, or Blepharitis. People who have oily skin, dry eyes or dandruff are prone to suffer from this disease, due to an overabundance of bacteria living in the skin at the base of the eyelashes. Oil glands there can become overactive, producing scaly flakes around the eyes and eyelashes. Eyes feel gritty, and the affected area burns, stings or becomes red. In severe cases, the eyelashes may even fall out or a chalazion may develop (a swollen oil gland on the eyelid). It’s not pretty, and it’s difficult to treat, but it won’t cause permanent eye damage if treated properly.
Patients can control their condition with a simple cleansing routine:
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- Twice a day or more, apply a warm compress to the eyelids, rewetting as the compress cools. Do the compress two or three times to loosen the flakes and reduce some of the oil secretions.
- Gently scrub the base of your eyelashes for about 15 seconds per lid with a cotton swab, lint-free pad or with your finger covered by a thin washcloth.
Sometimes these steps will not be enough. Medication, such as artificial tears to relieve dry eyes, oral or topical antibiotics to fight the bacteria, or (in some cases) steroids to reduce swelling, may be necessary in addition to the daily cleansing habits to control this condition.
Lid margin disease can have unpleasant – even serious – complications if not treated, including the development of ulcers on the cornea. It’s important to address this condition as soon as possible.
Dr. Jenkins and her staff are happy to answer all of your questions about Blepharitis and find the best treatment option for you. Please call (855) 522-2020 to make an appointment or email our office at info@jenkinseyecare.com.
