Blepharitis
Blepharitis is the inflammation of the eyelid margin.
Normally, the oil glands of the inner eyelids are responsible for producing a smooth and stable oil layer that coats the surface of the eye. This helps prevent the water layer of the tears from evaporating too quickly. In blepharitis, the oil glands become blocked and are unable to produce healthy oil for the eye’s surface.
Without healthy oil and tear layer, a build up of bacteria can accumulate in the eye and result in irritation, infection and inflammation of the lid margins. The symptoms of blepharitis are more prevalent in people who are reading, using the computer or other tasks that require more concentration. This is due to the fact that during these tasks, our blinking rate reduces below normal.
To find out more about blepharitis, please call us on 07 3345 3383 to make an appointment!
Signs and Symptoms
- Gritty
- Itching
- Burning
- Eye fatigue
- Discharge in the mornings
- Crusty deposits at the roots of the lashes
- Redness along the lid margin
Treatment
Generally, performing lid hygiene treatments may improve this chronic condition. Depending on the severity and duration of the condition, the treatment also varies from one to another.
The optometrist may recommend in-office dry eye treatments as well as home therapy to help improve the symptoms of blepharitis.
Home Therapy
- Warm compress with an eye mask
- Expression of the oil glands by gentle massages around the lid margin
- Cleaning of the lid margins with lid wipes or foam to remove the debris
- Using lubricating eye drops, gel or ointment to soothe the eyes and reduce the bacteria load.
Reduce irritation & discomfort of blepharitis.
Talk to us to find the most suitable blepharitis treatment by booking an appointment to with one of our optometrists.