Treatment of inflammation of the eyelid (blepharitis)
What is an eyelid inflammation?
Inflammation of the eyelid (blepharitis) is a very common inflammatory eye condition with numerous possible causes. It can occur as a result of certain dermatological conditions and/or bacterial infections of the eyelids. It is believed that half of the patients who visit an ophthalmologist have anterior (redness and swelling of the eyelid area around the eyelashes) or most often posterior blepharitis that affects the sebaceous glands (Meibomian glands) in the back of the eyelids.
What are the causes and consequences of eyelid inflammation?
Acne, allergies, seborrheic dermatitis, dry eye or even 30% of cases of chronic blepharitis are mentioned in the literature as the most common causes of anterior blepharitis, Demodex mites, known as lice. The most common cause of posterior blepharitis is the dysfunction of the Meibomian glands, in which the output channels of the glands that produce sebum are blocked, which consequently causes inflammation, infection and dry eye. Posterior blepharitis can also result from dermatological conditions such as rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis. As a consequence of posterior blepharitis, serious eye conditions such as stye, corneal inflammations and ulcers, etc. are possible.
What are the symptoms of eyelid inflammation?
Most forms of blepharitis occur in both children and adults, affecting both sexes and both eyes equally. Certain forms, such as staphylococcal blepharitis, affect mostly women (80%). Although unpleasant, most eyelid infections are not contagious and will not cause blindness.
The most common symptoms of blepharitis are itching, scales on the eyelashes, sticking of the eyelids, yellow or green secretions, burning, excessive blinking, blurred vision, oily eyelids, irregular growth of eyelashes, formation of dried secretions on the eyelashes, dry eye, tearing, photophobia, red, swollen eyelids, redness and eye irritation.
Diagnosis and treatment
The diagnosis of blepharitis is established by taking a detailed medical history, examination with a biomicroscope, swabs of the conjunctiva of the eye and tear film tests. It is possible to reduce discomfort at home with adequate eyelid hygiene (wiping the edge of the eyelids with Blephaclean wipes or rinsing with a mild solution of baby shampoo), applying warm compresses and massage and expressing the contents of the Meibomian glands. The ophthalmologist can prescribe local therapy: antibiotics or a combination of antibiotics and corticosteroids in the form of drops or ointment.
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