Blepharitis is the medical term for inflammation of the eyelids. It usually affects both eyes.
What are the causes of Blepharitis?
Blepharitis may be due to a combination of one or more of the following:
- A disorder of the glands at the edges of the eyelid
- A build up of crusts around the eyelashes
- The action of the body’s own bacteria on this debris
- Skin disorders such as dandruff of the scalp
What are the symptoms of Blepharitis?
Blepharitis may cause:
- Persistent eye irritation
- Itchiness around the eye
- Eyes watering for no reason
- Sensation of grit in the eye
- Scales on the eye lashes
- Redness and swelling of the eyelid margins
- Crusting of the eyelids, especially in the morning
- Redness of the eye
- Eyelid cysts / styes
Is it an infection?
No, but the condition can lead to a secondary bacterial infection. If this is the case, your Optometrist may write to your GP to ask for a short course of antibiotic eye ointment or drops.
How do I deal with the problem?
Simple, just book an eye examination to have the condition diagnosed, and be given instructions to start clearing up the condition.
