Greasy flakes around the eyelashes, eyelids stuck together, swollen eyelids…These are just some of the most common symptoms of the eye condition known as blepharitis.
When the eye doctor makes a blepharitis diagnosis, she/he is referring to the eye health condition in the eyes that causes the eyelids to become inflamed. The part of the eyelid that usually becomes inflamed is the area around the eyelashes. The inflammation may cause the eyelashes to become ingrown or even fall out. Blepharitis is not a contagious condition and the causes of it include bacterial infection or excessive oil gland production near the inner or outer eyelids where the lashes are growing. The two types of blepharitis are:
- Anterior Blepharitis: This form of blepharitis affects the outside of the front of the eyelid where the eyelashes are attached.
- Posterior Blepharitis: This form of blepharitis is linked to dysfunction of meibomian glands within the eyelids that secrete oils to help lubricate the eye.
Symptoms of Blepharitis
Blepharitis affects both eyes, and can affect both children and adults. The most common symptoms of blepharitis are:
- Blurry Vision
- Burning Eyes
- Red Eyes
- Dry Eyes
- Light Sensitivity
- Crusting of the Eyelashes
- Itchy Eyes
- Swollen Eyelids
- Gritty Sensation in the eyes
- Excessive Tears
Maintaining good eye health is the key to keeping blepharitis under control. If the eye doctor diagnoses your condition as severe, he may prescribe medication. Blepharitis rarely causes permanent vision problems. Some of the complications associated with blepharitis are dry eye syndrome, pink eye and permanent scarring of the eyelids.
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