Blepharitis Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

Blepharitis, which is more commonly referred to as irritable eye syndrome, is a chronic inflammation of the eye. Blepharitis is characterized by irritated sometimes itchy eyelids, mainly centering around the eyelashes, where a crusty, peeling, dry layer of skin forms. The eyelids may sometimes become red and swollen and when rubbed, the crusty flakes will be dislodged, and a thick, clear liquid will seep from around the eyelashes. When this liquid dries, more crust will form, thus the cycle of Blepharitis repeats itself.

Blepharitis is caused by an overabundance of bacteria, such as staphylococci or seborrheic, on the eyelid around the outer edge of the eye. Blepharitis may also be caused by common allergens such as cigarette smoke, pollen or pet dander. People who suffer with Rosasea or allergies are more susceptible to developing blepharitis. Other possible causes include but are not limited to, herpes simplex dermatitis, contact dermatitis, seborrheic dermatitis, and staphylococci dermatitis.

Left untreated, blepharitis could lead to more serious eye disease, such as conjunctivitis which is an inflammation of the whites of the eyes and the inside of the eyelids, and keratitis, which is an inflammation of the eyes cornea. Scarring of the eyelid and permanent eyelash loss may also occur, as well as pitting of the edges of the eyelids, due to scarring.

There is no cure for blepharitis, but it can be successfully treated with proper eye hygiene. Place a warm wet wash cloth, gauze pad or cloth directly on the eye to soften and remove crusty patches. This may need to be repeated several times, as all of the crusty material must be removed and the eye tear glands cleaned. Next place a few drops of baby shampoo into one bottle cap full of luke warm water. Take a cotton swab and gently cleanse the area around the eyelashes thoroughly. Do not wash the area heavily as this will do more harm than good, causing greater irritation to the eye. Finally finish off with an antibiotic ointment such as erythromycin or sulfacetamide ointment, applied to the outer edge of the eyelid.

Steps may be taken to help prevent blepharitis from occurring. Wash your hands and face regularly. Don't rub your eyes with dirty hands. Remove all eye makeup before you go to bed each night. Replace eye shadows, eyeliners and mascaras on a regular basis. Over time, bacteria will grow in these products, then when they are placed on your eyes, this bacteria can spread causing blepharitis.