Astigmatism
Blepharitis
Cataracts
Conjunctivitis (Pink
Eye)
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Dry Eye Syndrome
Glaucoma
Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
Keratoconus
Macular Degeneration
Myopia (Nearsightedness)
Presbyopia (Reading
Vision)
Retinal Detachment |
Blepharitis is
a chronic inflammation that affects the eyelids and
eyelashes, and is a frequent problem in both
children and adults. It is one of the most common
problems doctors will see in their office.
Blepharitis can often cause redness and swelling as
well as burning, itching, and irritation of the
eyelids. You may notice a dandruff or crusty, flaky
skin on the eyelids, while some patients have no
symptoms at all. Among the most common causes of
this condition are poor eyelid hygiene, excessive
oil produced by the glands in the eyelids, bacterial
infections, allergic reactions, and touching your
eyes or eyelids with your fingers or hands.
The best way to control it is to keep the eyelids
and eyelashes clean. Start with a warm compress to
loosen debris. This can be done with a warm, damp,
clean washcloth held over your closed eyes for ten
minutes. After performing your lid compresses, use a
clean washcloth soaked in an equal mixture of baby
shampoo and water and gently scrub the eyelids at
the base of your eyelashes and rinse thoroughly. Do
this two to three times daily.
Like dandruff, there is no cure for blepharitis, but
it can be controlled. In some cases, antibiotic or
anti-inflammatory eyedrops or ointments are
necessary for flare-ups or more severe cases. All
forms of blepharitis are chronic in nature and
require long-term treatment. Be sure to maintain
your appointments with your eye doctor so that your
condition can be monitored and treated. |
