Eyelid margin disease is a common and persistent inflammation of the eyelids. Symptoms include:
This condition frequently occurs in people who have a tendency towards acne rosacea, oily skin, dandruff or dry eyes.
With blepharitis, both the upper and lower eyelids become coated with oily particles and bacteria near the base of the eyelashes. It may cause irritation, itchiness, redness and stinging or burning of the eye.
Everyone has bacteria on the surface of their skin, but in some people, bacteria thrive in the skin at the base of the eyelashes. Large amounts of bacteria around the eyelashes can cause dandruff-like scales and particles to form along the lashes and eyelid margins.
Some people also have a tendency for the glands of the eyelid margin to get “clogged up”
Blepharitis is often a chronic condition, but it can be controlled with the following treatment:
Warm compresses: Wet a clean washcloth with warm water, wring it out and place it over your closed eyelids for at least one minute. Repeat two or three times, rewetting the washcloth as it cools. This will loosen scales and debris around your eyelashes. It also helps dilute oil secretions from nearby oil glands, preventing the development of a chalazion – an enlarged lump caused by clogged oil secretions in the eyelid.
Eyelid scrubs: Using a cotton bud or commercial lint-free pad soaked in warm water; gently scrub the base of your eyelashes for about 15 seconds per eyelid. You can also use baby shampoo, or a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda mixed in warm water.
Antibiotic ointment: Your ophthalmologist may prescribe an antibiotic ointment. Using a clean fingertip or cotton swab, gently apply a small amount at the base of the eyelashes before bedtime.
Artificial tears or steroid eye drops may also be prescribed temporarily to relieve dry eye or inflammation.
Good hygiene: Because blepharitis can be a persistent problem, you should practice good skin and eyelid hygiene to prevent recurrences. In addition to careful cleansing of your eyelashes, washing your hair, scalp and eyebrows with antibacterial shampoo can also help control blepharitis. If you wear Mascara, please change the mascara bottle frequently, and remove thoroughly at bedtime.
Good Diet: Try to increase the intake of Fish oils, either in your diet, or discuss supplements with your GP.
Meibomian Gland Extractions: Sometimes if glands are very clogged, your doctor can perform a procedure to release the blockages from the oil glands.
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