What is it?
Blepharitis is the name given to the inflammation of the eyelids. Inflammation results in infiltration of blood cells and various other substances in the body in order to fight an infection, injury, or any other causes of inflammation.
Causes
There are a variety of causes of the condition. In most cases there is a problem with the glands that are responsible for lubrication the eye. These glands then end up producing too little or too much of the substance, or they start producing the wrong substances altogether. As a result the eyelids become inflamed, itchy and very irritated. This usually only involves the eyelid margins, but can also involve the inner potion.
Sometimes there is a problem with the margin of the eyelid around the eyelashes. This results in an infection at the base of the lash, usually by a Staphylococcal bacterium. Allergies also play a role on this condition. This can happen as a result of sensitivity to a certain substance including mascara, contact lens solution, spray, chemicals, and other allergens floating around in the air.
On less common occasions, the eyelids can be subject to a primary infection with things such as head lice, bacteria or other tiny organisms. Systemic diseases like skin cancer can also affect the eyelid.
Signs and symptoms
There are many signs and symptoms that come with blepharitis. The symptoms in this case include burning or itchy eyes, and a sense that there is sand or some other foreign body in the eye. Eyes cal also feel dry due to insufficient secretion of oils. There may also be sensitivity to light and an uncomfortable feeling when wearing contact lenses.
The signs of the condition include swelling and redness of the margins of the eyelids, flaking of the skin around the eyes or crusting of the eyelashes. There may also be ulceration and scarring. Eyelashes can also be lost or grow abnormally, and become matted.
Complications
The condition can lead to a number of complications, especially if it has been longstanding. It can cause a sty, which is basically a bacterial infection of the oil glands, resulting in clogging and the formation if a painful lump. This process can also lead to the formation of a conjunctival granuloma. Corneal ulceration can occur as a result of constant inflammation and irritation of the eye. Chronic pink eye can also occur, where there are repeated bouts of conjunctivitis.
Treatment
In most cases the treatment for blepharitis is to practise good hygiene, and cleaning the face and scalp regularly with warm water. You can apply a warm compress to the affected eye for around ten minutes. Try to do this four times a day in order to adequately soften the debris at the eyelid margin. You can also clean the debris if it is visible. For this you can use warm water or a special cleansing solution available at your local pharmacy. Try to limit the amount of substances around your eyes, like eye make up and contact lenses.
