Blepharitis

What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a prevalent eye disorder that results in your eyelids becoming red, swollen, irritated, and itchy. It may also lead to the formation of crusty, dandruff-like flakes on your eyelashes.

While blepharitis can be quite uncomfortable, it is not contagious, and it typically does not result in any permanent damage to your eyes.

The primary method of treating blepharitis involves consistently cleaning your eyelids and ensuring they remain free of crusts. Although blepharitis often does not completely resolve, you can take measures to alleviate your symptoms. Consult with your eye care professional to discuss the underlying causes of your blepharitis and the most effective strategies for managing it.

What are the symptoms of blepharitis?

Typical symptoms associated with blepharitis include:

  • A sensation of having something in your eye

  • Burning or stinging sensations in the eyes

  • Excessive tearing

  • Itchy eyes

  • Increased sensitivity to light

  • Redness and swelling of the eyes or eyelids

  • Tears that appear foamy or contain small bubbles

  • Dryness in the eyes

  • Crusty eyelids or eyelashes upon waking

Blepharitis can also lead to more severe complications such as:

  • Blurred vision

  • Loss of eyelashes

  • Abnormal eyelash growth direction

  • Swelling in other areas of the eye, including the cornea

Am I at risk for blepharitis?

Your likelihood of developing blepharitis increases if you have:

  • Dandruff — flaky skin patches on your scalp or face

  • Rosacea — a skin condition characterized by redness and bumps, primarily on the face

  • Oily skin

  • Allergies that impact your eyelashes

What causes blepharitis?

In most cases, blepharitis occurs due to an overabundance of bacteria on your eyelids at the base of your eyelashes. While having bacteria on your skin is normal, an excessive amount can lead to issues. Additionally, blepharitis can develop if the oil glands in your eyelids become clogged or irritated.

What are the types of blepharitis?

There are two distinct types of blepharitis. You may experience one type or both types simultaneously.

Anterior blepharitis. This type affects the outer part of your eye, where your eyelashes are attached to your eyelid. It is typically caused by bacteria on your skin or dandruff from your scalp or eyebrows. Allergies or mites (tiny parasites) can also contribute to anterior blepharitis, although this is less common.

Posterior blepharitis. This type impacts the inner edge of the eyelid — the area that comes into contact with your eye. Posterior blepharitis occurs when the oil glands in your eyelids become clogged. Common skin conditions such as rosacea and dandruff on the scalp can lead to posterior blepharitis.

How will my eye doctor check for blepharitis?

Your eye care provider can diagnose blepharitis through a physical examination of your eyes. During this assessment, your doctor will closely examine your eyes, eyelids, and eyelashes, possibly utilizing a bright light or a specialized magnifying instrument.

What other health problems can blepharitis cause?

Blepharitis can result in additional eye-related issues, including:

  • Stye. A stye is a painful, red bump on the eyelid caused by a blocked oil gland.

  • Chalazion. A chalazion is a hard, painless lump on the eyelid resulting from a blocked oil gland. This often occurs when a stye persists. It can lead to swelling and redness of the eyelid, but a chalazion typically resolves on its own.

  • Dry eye. Accumulation of oil and flakes in your tear film (a thin layer of tears covering the surface of your eye) can lead to a dry sensation. Alternatively, your eyes may feel watery or teary due to improper tear function. Learn more about dry eye.

  • Corneal damage. In severe instances, blepharitis can harm your cornea (the clear outer layer at the front of your eye). This may occur due to swelling or irritation in your eyelids or eyelashes that grow inappropriately.

  • Chronic (long-term) red eye. Blepharitis can cause the white part of your eye to appear red consistently.

What's the treatment for blepharitis?

The most effective way to treat blepharitis is to maintain clean eyelids and prevent crust formation. Use warm water and a gentle cleanser (such as baby shampoo) to cleanse your eyelids and eliminate crusts daily.

Steps for cleaning your eyelids when you have blepharitis:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water.

  2. Combine warm water with a gentle cleanser, like baby shampoo.

  3. Soak a clean, soft cloth or cotton swab in the warm cleanser and water mixture.

  4. Place the cloth against your closed eye for a few minutes to loosen crusts. This can also help prevent your oil glands from becoming clogged.

  5. Gently rub the cloth or cotton swab back and forth, concentrating on the area where your eyelashes meet your eyelids.

  6. Rinse your eye with clean water.

  7. Repeat these steps on your other eye using a fresh cloth or cotton swab.

There are additional treatment options that may assist you in managing blepharitis. Consult your eye doctor to determine if any of these alternatives are suitable for you:

  • Eye drops. Your doctor may prescribe steroid eye drops to alleviate redness, swelling, and irritation. They may also suggest a type of eye drops known as artificial tears, which are available without a prescription.

  • Antibiotics. If your blepharitis is bacterial in nature, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops, ointments, or oral medications.

  • Addressing other health issues. If another condition, such as rosacea or dandruff, is contributing to your blepharitis, treating that issue will be beneficial.

Blepharitis typically does not resolve entirely. You will need to adhere to a routine for cleaning your eyelids throughout your life to keep it under control.