All You Need to Know About Blepharitis

If your eyelids are sticky in the morning, but don’t believe you have conjunctivitis then the chances are you have another common eye condition called blepharitis. Not sure what blepharitis is? Let us break it down for you, including what it is, what causes it, its symptoms and what is the best blepharitis treatment out there. 

What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids where they can become red, swollen and on occasions, itchy. Blepharitis is a common eye condition and is often experienced by those who suffer from dry eyes.  

What Causes Blepharitis?

Blepharitis can be caused by: –  

• A skin condition – such as acne, rosacea, or dermatitis 

• Bacteria that live on the surface of skin 

• The glands on the inside of your eyelids not producing enough oil 

Blepharitis is not infectious and therefore cannot be spread to others, unlike conjunctivitis.  

What are Blepharitis Symptoms?

Blepharitis symptoms are like many other common eye conditions, such as dry eyes and conjunctivitis to name a few. If you suffer with blepharitis, you could suffer with: – 

• Burning or stinging sensations in the eyes 

• Sore, itchy eyes or eyelids 

• Sticky or crusty eyelids, especially in a morning  

• Gritty eyes 

• Red eyes 

Blepharitis Complications

Although blepharitis is a common eye condition, and a very treatable one, it can cause other eye conditions.  

If you suffer with blepharitis, you could also suffer with: –  

• Dry eyes 

• Eye lid cysts called chalazions and styes 

Blepharitis very rarely leads to serious eye conditions. 

Blepharitis Treatment

Blepharitis is a long-term condition. The best way to live with the condition, and treat its symptoms, is a daily eyelid cleansing routine.  

Eyelid cleaning best practice:

• Wash your hands before you start to clean your eyes 

• Using either cotton wool and sterile water, individual eyelid wipes, or a special solution that has been recommended by your healthcare provider, wipe your eye from the inside (side of your nose) outwards, wiping carefully along your eyelids to remove any stickiness or crustiness from your eyelashes 

• Make sure to use a fresh piece of cotton wool or wipe each time you wipe your eye  

• And do not use the same piece of cotton wool or wipe on both eyes! 

Even if your symptoms clear up, it would be a good idea to continue your blepharitis treatment with a daily eyelid cleansing routine twice a day to keep symptoms at bay. 

In some cases, where symptoms do not improve with a daily cleansing routine, and when blepharitis is more severe, antibiotics may be required. This could be in the form of an eye ointment, eye drops or even oral antibiotics.  

If you do suffer with dry eyes with blepharitis, your pharmacist, opticians or GP, may suggest using some lubricating eye drops. 

Other tips to help if you are suffering with blepharitis symptoms

• Use a warm compress 

• Take out your contact lenses 

• Avoid using eye makeup while you have symptoms 

So, with a little TLC your eyes will thank you and will feel much healthier and happier. 

Want to know more about how to keep your eyes in tip top condition?  

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