What is blepharitis?
Blepharitis is the inflammation of the eyelids that occurs due to oily particles and bacteria on the eyelid margin that results in irritation, itching, redness, and stinging or burning of the eyes.
If the outside of the eyelids is affected it is called anterior blepharitis. If it is not treated, it leads to thickening and inward or outward turning of the eyelids. It affects vision also. If the inner part of the eyelashes is affected it is called posterior blepharitis. It occurs as a result of dysfunction of the eye’s tiny oil glands.
The bacterial growth over the lids causes blepharitis. Microbes invade the tissues and damage to the immune system results because of the production of bacterial toxins, enzymes, and waste products. Bacteria grow on the margin of the eyelids in case there is dysfunction of meibomian glands or in the presence of seborrheic dermatitis.
Is blepharitis infectious?
-Infection by staphylococcal bacteria.
-Irritation of the eyelids with oil secreted by glands on the eyelid margin.
-Inflammation caused by irritants in the atmosphere such as chemicals at work, cats or dogs’ dander, results in allergic blepharitis.
-Various systemic diseases or various skin cancers can cause blepharitis.
-Infection of meibomian glands.
What are the symptoms of blepharitis?
-Sore red eyelids.
-Intense itching with a burning sensation in the eyes.
-A foreign body sensation in the eyes.
-Crusts formation on eyelashes.
-There is an inward or outward growth of the eyelashes.
-Eyelids appear greasy.
-After waking up, eyelids stick together.
-The flaky skin around the eyes.
-Loss of eyelashes.
-Sensitivity to light.
-Watery eyes.
-Blurred vision.
-Ulceration of eyelids.
-Infection results in stye or chalazion.
Does blepharitis go away?
Blepharitis is not a serious ailment, but it can result in weakness of vision, which can come and go.
Is blepharitis an allergy?
Not necessary that blepharitis is an allergy, it may also be caused by bacterial infection.
What diseases can cause blepharitis?
Commonly blepharitis is caused by bacterial infection or dandruff of the scalp & eyebrows.
Can I wear eye makeup with blepharitis?
No, because the chemical present in the makeup is toxic so one should avoid make-up during blepharitis.
Can blepharitis affect your vision?
Yes, if blepharitis is not treated it may affect vision.
How can I prevent blepharitis?
-Keep your eyelids clean.
-Remove all eye makeup before bedtime.
-Eyeliner is to be avoided
Complications of blepharitis?
-Conjunctivitis.
-Stye.
-Chalazion.
-Loss of eyelashes.
-Corneal ulcer.
-Scarring of the eyelids.
Homeopathic treatment for blepharitis?
-antimonium crud
-graphites
-Hepar sulp
-merc.cor
-euphrasia
-Silicea
-aconite
-staphysagria
-Argentum nitricum
