What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a very common eye condition affecting people of all ages where the eyelid margins become inflamed. Blepharitis can cause flaking or crusting of the eyelids which may be associated with redness and itchiness. It can also increase the risk of an eye infection like conjunctivitis.

Blepharitis can frequently be associated with blockage of the tear glands lining the lid margins so that the oily component they produce is reduced and the tears evaporate more quickly or stream from the eye.

What Causes Blepharitis?

Some causes include:

• Poor lid hygiene

• Allergic reaction

• Eye makeup

• Idiopathic (no real cause)

How Can I Manage or Treat Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a chronic condition so management needs to be ongoing to prevent it from returning.

Treatment options for Blepharitis include:

• Regular daily eyelid hygiene

• Blephex lid & lash cleaning

• Lid scrubs and cleansing wipes eg. Sterilid or Lidcare.

• Hot compresses – A warm flannel or eye bag is held in position over the eyes and a gentle massage of the glands lining the lids is carried out.

• Artificial tears (eye drops) to help to ease symptoms of itchiness

• Omega-3 oils or capsules to improve the quality of tears and reduce inflammation

• In severe cases, we can refer you to an ophthalmologist for medical treatment