Blepharitis

General Illness Information

Common Name: BLEPHARITIS

Medical Term: None Specified

Description:

Infection or inflammation of the margins or edges of the eyelids. It can affect eyelids, eyelashes, meibomian glands (lubricating glands of the eyelid) or conjunctiva (whites of the eyes).

Causes:

Blepharitis can be cause by the following: Bacterial infection, usually staphylococcal, of the eyelash follicles and the meibomian glands; Allergic reaction (less serious- inflammation only); Body lice (rare).

Prevention:

Wash hands often, and dry with clean towels. Avoid environments that contain dust or other irritating substances. Use hypoallergenic eye makeup.

Signs & Symptoms

• Gritty burning sensation in the eyes and eyelids.
• On awakening, lid margins are swollen, red, irregular, and crusted.
• Red eyes- may be itchy.

Risk Factors

• Adults over 60.
• Exposure to chemical or environmental irritants.
• Medical history of seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp and other body parts.
• Crowded or unsanitary living conditions.
• Poor nutrition.
• Immunosuppression due to illness or medication.
• Diabetes mellitus.
• Acne rosacea.

Diagnosis & Treatment

General Measures:

• Place warm washcloth over closed eyelids for five minutes to soften the crusts.
• Moisten a Q-Tip in a solution of 3 oz. Water and 3 drops of baby shampoo, and scrub the closed lids.
• Rinse the solution from the lids with clear water.
• Brush off lid margin with a clean dry Q-Tip.
• Do this twice daily.
• Also do not wear eye makeup or contact until condition improves.

Medications:

• Antibiotic ointment or eye drops, which may contain cortisone drugs may be prescribed.
• Oral medication may be prescribed in severe cases such as with acne rosacea.

Activity:

No restrictions.

Diet:

No special diet.

Possible Complications:

• Loss of eyelashes.
• Ulceration of the cornea (covering of the eye).
• Scarred eyelids.
• Stye.
• Misdirected eyelash growth.

Prognosis

Blepharitis is stubbornly resistant to treatment, but it is sometimes curable in 8 to 12 months. Recurrence is common.

Posted by RxMed