What is Blepharitis?
Blepharitis is a common and often chronic condition characterized by inflammation of the eyelids, unusually at the margins where the eyelashes grow. It can cause a gritty feeling, excessive tearing, and red, swollen eyelids.
Primary Causes
The exact cause of blepharitis is not always clear, but it is frequently associated with an overgrowth of bacteria normally found on the skin, blocked oil glands at the base of the eyelashes, or skin conditions like rosacea.
Management and Care
The cornerstone of blepharitis treatment is maintaining strict eyelid hygiene:
- Warm Compresses: To help loosen crusts and unplug oil glands.
- Eyelid Scrubs: Gentle cleansing of the eyelash margins using baby shampoo or specialized commercial eyelid cleansers.
- Antibiotics/Steroids: In more severe cases, an eye specialist may prescribe specialized ointments or drops to reduce bacterial load and inflammation.