Have you ever experienced itchy eyelids with peeling skin? This condition is most likely blepharitis, an inflammation of the outer eyelids. Although it’s not contagious, understanding its causes and proper treatment is essential. Read on to learn more about blepharitis.

What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis refers to the inflammation of the eyelids, typically affecting both eyes along the edge of the eyelid.

This condition is often caused by a blockage of the small oil glands located near the base of the eyelashes, which leads to eye irritation and redness. Several other health conditions can also contribute to the development of blepharitis.

While blepharitis is not contagious, it is frequently chronic and can be difficult to treat. The inflammation can sometimes cause discomfort, making individuals feel self-conscious about their appearance.

There are two main types of blepharitis, depending on which part of the eye is affected and the underlying cause:

• Anterior blepharitis: This type occurs at the area where the eyelashes meet the eyelid. It’s usually caused by a bacterial infection, seborrheic dermatitis (dandruff), or a combination of both.

• Posterior blepharitis: This type affects the oil glands on the inner part of the eyelid, known as the meibomian glands. It is typically caused by conditions like rosacea or meibomian gland dysfunction.

Symptoms of Blepharitis

The symptoms of blepharitis can vary in severity from person to person. Some common symptoms include:

• Sore or burning sensation in the eyes

• Watery eyes

• Itchy eyes

• Sensitivity to light

• Redness

• Swelling

• Dry eyes

• A sensation of something in the eye

• Crusts or flakes similar to dandruff in the eye

• Frothy tears with small bubbles

If left untreated, blepharitis can worsen, leading to additional symptoms like:

• Blurred vision

• Eyelash loss

• Eyelashes growing in the wrong direction

• Swelling of the eye

Blepharitis Treatment

Treatment for blepharitis can involve both home care and medication. Common treatments include:

• Medications to fight infection

• Medications to control inflammation

• Medications that influence the immune system to alleviate symptoms

• Medications to manage underlying conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea, or other disorders

In addition to medication, home care practices can also help reduce inflammation, such as using warm compresses and maintaining proper eye hygiene. Some helpful home treatments include:

• Cleaning the eyelids with water or baby soap

• Applying warm compresses to the eyes to remove crusts

• Massaging the eyelids to help remove blockages in the oil glands

• Avoiding eye makeup while the eyes are inflamed

While blepharitis rarely resolves completely, treatments can help alleviate symptoms. This condition tends to be chronic, requiring ongoing care.

If you suspect you have blepharitis, it’s essential to see a doctor for proper treatment. You can also consult a doctor through the Ai Care app, available for download on the App Store or Play Store.

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