Blepharitis
Symptoms
- Itchy and painful eyelids
- Eyelash curling
- Redness of the eyelids
Diagnostics
Determined by a thorough eye examination
Treatment
- Warm compresses
- Antibiotics
- Eyelid hygiene
What is blepharitis?
Blepharitis is a common chronic inflammatory disease of the eyelid margin that can affect both children and adults. It is characterised by red and swollen eyelids, especially around the edges, and may be due to infection or skin conditions. Blepharitis is a common, recurrent and difficult to treat disease.
There are several types of blepharitis:
- Bacterial – swollen and dandruffy eyelid margin, clumped eyelashes;
- Seborrhoeic – eyelashes covered with oil and dandruff;
- Ulcerative – characterised by purulent inflammation and possible loss of eyelashes;
- Meimobo – red eyelid edges, dry eyes;
- Angular – a crinkling, redness at the corners of the eyelids.
What are the symptoms of blepharitis?
Blepharitis can develop at any age, but is more common in the over-40 age group. Symptoms of blepharitis:
- Itchy and painful eyelids;
- The eyelids stick together, making it difficult to close your eyes, especially after sleep;
- Eyelashes become brittle or greasy;
- Light sensitivity;
- Eye redness.
Blepharitis is not dangerous, but can lead to further problems. For example, many people with blepharitis also develop dry eye syndrome, which causes dry eyes, irritation and pain. Serious conditions that can affect vision are rare, especially if the resulting complications are detected and managed in time.
What causes blepharitis?
The causes of blepharitis vary widely:
- Increased bacterial count on the edge of the eyelid;
- Skin diseases – atopic or seborrhoeic dermatitis, rosacea, psoriasis;
- Inadequate personal hygiene;
- Eyelash mites.
How is blepharitis diagnosed?
Blepharitis is diagnosed after a thorough eye examination. Treatment depends on the type of blepharitis and the symptoms.
What help is available?
Blepharitis is usually a chronic condition. Most people experience recurrent episodes with asymptomatic periods in between.
Although it cannot usually be cured completely, blepharitis symptoms can be managed by washing the eyelids daily with a warm compress – gently massaging the eyelids and wiping away any trace amounts of gunk from them. Special medical wipes are also very effective. More complex conditions may require antibiotics, which can be administered in the eye or on the eyelid, or in tablet form.
In some cases, a visit to an ophthalmologist may be necessary for further examination and treatment.
Take care of your eyes!
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Frequently asked questions
Ar blefaritas užkrečiamas?
Blefaritas nėra užkrečiamas ir paprastai nesukelia rimtos žalos akims ar regėjimui, tačiau sukelia nepatogumų ir diskomfortą dėl nepatrauklaus vaizdo.
Ar blefaritas išgydomas?
Dažniausiai blefaritas yra lėtinė būklė ir įprastai, negali būti visiškai išgydytas.
Kas yra blefaritas?
Blefaritas yra dažnai pasitaikanti lėtinė uždegiminė vokų krašto liga.
