Blepharitis
On this page:
Blepharitis is a common condition that causes inflammation of the
eyelids. The condition can be difficult to manage because it tends to recur.
Return to top 
Blepharitis occurs in two forms:
affects the outside front of the eyelid, where
the eyelashes are attached. The two most common causes of anterior blepharitis
are bacteria (Staphylococcus) and scalp dandruff.
affects the inner eyelid (the moist part that
makes contact with the eye) and is caused by problems with the oil (meibomian)
glands in this part of the eyelid. Two skin disorders can cause this form of
blepharitis: acne rosacea, which leads to red and inflamed skin, and scalp
dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis).
Return to top
Symptoms of either form of blepharitis include a foreign body or burning
sensation, excessive tearing, itching, sensitivity to light (photophobia), red
and swollen eyelids, redness of the eye, blurred vision, frothy tears, dry eye,
or crusting of the eyelashes on awakening.
Return to top
Complications from blepharitis include:
Stye: A red tender bump on the eyelid that is caused by an acute infection of
the oil glands of the eyelid.
Chalazion: This condition can follow the development of a stye. It is a
usually painless firm lump caused by inflammation of the oil glands of the
eyelid. Chalazion can be painful and red if there is also an infection.
Problems with the tear film: Abnormal or decreased oil secretions that are
part of the tear film can result in excess tearing or dry eye. Because tears are
necessary to keep the cornea healthy, tear film problems can make people more at
risk for corneal infections.
Return to top
Treatment for both forms of blepharitis involves keeping the lids clean and
free of crusts. Warm compresses should be applied to the lid to loosen the
crusts, followed by a light scrubbing of the eyelid with a cotton swab and a
mixture of water and baby shampoo. Because blepharitis rarely goes away
completely, most patients must maintain an eyelid hygiene routine for life. If
the blepharitis is severe, an eye care professional may also prescribe
antibiotics or steroid eyedrops.
When scalp dandruff is present, a dandruff shampoo for the hair is
recommended as well. In addition to the warm compresses, patients with posterior
blepharitis will need to massage their eyelids to clean the oil accumulated in
the glands. Patients who also have acne rosacea should have that condition
treated at the same time.
Return to top
The following organizations may be able to provide additional information on
blepharitis:
American
Academy of Ophthalmology
American
Optometric Association
Return to top
