What You Need to Know About Blepharitis

Blepharitis is an inflammatory condition that affects your eyelids. It usually occurs alongside dry eye syndrome. Read on as your eye care specialists from Six One Six Vision Center discuss this problem in detail.

Cause and Risk Factors

Certain bacteria live on your skin in normal conditions. Some individuals, however, may have more bacteria than normal along the rims of their eyelids and base of their eyelashes than other people. These bacteria may create a biofilm that traps surface debris, foreign substances and other impurities. This may lead to exotoxin production that may irritate your eyelids, causing inflammation.

Your optometrist explains that having dry eyes makes you more likely to develop blepharitis. The lack of hydration and moisture in your eyes promotes eyelid irritation. If you have oily skin, you’re also at a higher risk of developing this condition. Increasing age is another major risk factor as sebum imbalances and hormonal changes may occur over time.

Common Symptoms

Blepharitis causes red, swollen and itchy eyelids. Irritated eyelids may affect your tear glands, compromising your tear production. You may experience a burning sensation, a feeling that something is stuck in your eye, crusty eyelashes and blurred vision as well.

Recommended Treatment

Keeping your eyelids clean and free of crusts is the treatment goal for those with blepharitis. Your eye doctor can recommend a routine for the eyelids to loosen the crusts. For more severe cases, we may prescribe antibiotics or anti-inflammatory eye drops for your improved visual health and comfort.

For more information about blepharitis or other eye care concerns, call us at (208) 514-1858. You may also complete our form to request an appointment. We serve Boise, Eagle and nearby Idaho areas.