Blepharitis

Blepharitis is a very common condition affecting the base of the lashes where there can be a build up of bacteria. It can also affect the conjunctiva and cornea. It can be described as “dandruff” of the eyelids and lashes. You may notice that there is a crusting around the base of the lashes, which may be more prevalent in the morning and sometimes it may even cause your lashes to stick together.

There are different types of blepharitis that may occur alone or in combination: “Anterior Blepharitis” involves the lash bearing area and “Posterior Blepharitis” affects the area behind the lashes where the meibomian glands open (meibomian glands produce an oil that is important in reducing tear film evaporation).

Symptoms: Sometimes the condition is symptomless. However, you may experience:       

• Burning 
• Irritation       
• Itching          
• Dryness       
• Dislike to bright lights

Treatment: You can relieve the irritation with daily lid hygiene (like your dental hygiene). This comprises of the following:

1- Hot compresses followed by lid massage will encourage the glands to express oils and improve gland function: with a clean flannel or cotton wool pad (more sterile than flannel) soaked in previously boiled, warm water, heat the lids by applying to the closed eyes for 3-5 minutes. Some people find it easier and more effective to use a heat pad, such as the Eyebag from www.eyebagcompany.com. After applying this heat, you need to express the oily secretions from the meibomian glands by using a cotton bud or your (clean) finger. Firm pressure is required to milk the secretions towards the gland opening on the lid margin. Use a rotary motion down towards the lid margin and work your way across both the upper and lower lids. Do NOT stretch the lids.

2- Lid margin cleaning to remove crusts and debris and to reduce the higher levels of bacteria present at the lid margins: soak a fresh cotton bud into a solution of warm, boiled water (or saline) mixed with a few drops of baby shampoo or a little bicarbonate of soda. Use the bud to scrub along the base of the lashes to remove crusts, debris and bacteria. If you find this difficult, you may prefer to purchase disposable, pre-soaked, sterile pads that are applied in a similar manner to the cotton wool bud (Lidcare or Blephaclean), or use a cleaning gel (Blephasol) or shower foam (Sterilid), all of which can be purchased from reception.

3- Drops: may be given to restore the tear film. Lubricants, such as the Clinitas Range available at reception, or Systane Eye drops, used at least 4 times daily will soothe the inflammation.

If all above treatments fail, occasionally, a course of antibiotic or steroid eyedrops prescribed by your GP may help (but it must be noted that blepharitis is a chronic condition, and will recur. Therefore, daily lid hygiene is the preferred option). 

Should your eyes become more irritated, red or painful, or you develop a discharge, consult your Optometrist or an Eye Specialist Immediately.