Blepharitis
The Inflamed & Irritative Eyelid Margin
Blepharitis is a chronic or long-term inflammation of the eyelids & eyelash hair follicles and can affect people of all ages. It usually affects the edges along both the eyes. When the tiny oil glands near the base of the eyelashes become clogged, they give rise to irritation and redness. This attracts too much bacteria at the base of the eyelashes; causing discomfort and a scratchy feeling. Scalp dandruff also plays a vital part in enhancing Blepharitis.
Blepharitis is normally characterized by lid crusting, redness, misdirected lashes, styes etc., However, it is Non-Contagious and usually affects the lower eyelid and eyelashes.
Although it does not affect Vision or damage the eye, it can lead to loss of eye lashes, eyelid scarring and inflammation of the cornea.
It can also affect the skin around the base of the eyelid.
Usually Staphylococcal bacteria causes ulcerative Blepharitis but it can also be caused by a virus, like
herpes simplex or zoster.
Blepharitis tends to be worse in cold windy weather, prolonged computer usage, sleep deprivation, air-conditioned environments, contact lens wear, and with general dehydration. It also tends to be worse in the presence of active skin disease.
Conditions Associate with Blepharitis
Treatment
Keeping the lids clean and free of crusts. Warm compresses should be applied to the lid to loosen the crusts, followed by a light scrubbing of the eyelid with a cotton swab and a mixture of water and baby shampoo.
Additionally; patients with posterior blepharitis will need to massage their eyelids to clean the oil accumulated in the glands.
If the blepharitis is severe, an eye care professional may also prescribe antibiotics or steroid eye drops
Follow Up & After Care
Because blepharitis rarely goes away completely, most patients must maintain an eyelid hygiene routine for life.
When scalp dandruff is present, a dandruff shampoo for the hair is recommended as well.
Patients who also have acne rosacea should have that condition treated at same time.
Prevention
Keep your eyelids clean.
Remove all eye makeup before bed.
Don't use eyeliner on the back edges of your eyelids, behind the lashes.
If you're in the early stages of treating blepharitis, prevent further irritation by not using makeup.
Optom's Diary Vol. 13 provides invaluable insights into managing blepharitis, a condition often overlooked yet significant in ocular health. The comprehensive overview delves into effective treatment strategies, highlighting the importance of patient education and long-term management. For those seeking further resources, Check this volume serves as a vital reference point. Additionally, readers can go to the website for supplementary materials, including visual guides and expert opinions. This volume not only enriches optometric knowledge but also underscores the necessity of proactive care in combating blepharitis and its potential complications. Optometrists and allied healthcare professionals alike will find this volume a valuable addition to their practice resources.