Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids. Blepharitis usually involves the part of the eyelid where the eyelashes grow and affects both eyelids.

Blepharitis commonly occurs when tiny oil glands located near the base of the eyelashes become clogged. This leads to irritated and red eyes.

Types of eyelid inflammation (Blepharitis)

There are two types of eyelid inflammation

• Anterior eye inflammation occurs on the outside of your eye where your eyelashes are located. Dandruff on your eyebrows and allergic reactions in your eyes can cause anterior eyelid inflammation.
• Posterior eyelid inflammation occurs on the inner edge of eyelids closest to your eye. A malfunctioning oil gland behind your eyelash follicles usually causes this form of inflammation.

What are the symptoms of Blepharitis?

It makes your eyelids red, itchy, and a little swollen. The bases of your eyelashes may also look scaly. You might also notice:

• Feeling like something is in your eye
• A burning feeling in the eye
• Sensitivity to light
• Red and swollen eyes or eyelids
• Blurry vision
• Dry eyes
• Crusty eyelashes

What are the causes of Blepharitis?

The exact cause of blepharitis isn't clear. It may be associated with one or more factors, including:

• Seborrheic dermatitis — dandruff of the scalp and eyebrows
• A bacterial infection
• Clogged or malfunctioning oil glands in your eyelids
• Rosacea — a skin condition characterized by facial redness
• Allergies, including allergic reactions to eye medications, contact lens solutions or eye makeup
• Eyelash mites or lice

What are the tests to diagnose Blepharitis?

Tests and procedures used to diagnose blepharitis include:

• Examining your eyelids. Your doctor will carefully examine your eyelids and your eyes. He or she may use a special magnifying instrument during the examination.
• Swabbing skin for testing. In certain cases, your doctor may use a swab to collect a sample of the oil or crust that forms on your eyelid. This sample can be analyzed for bacteria, fungi or evidence of an allergy.

How Blepharitis treated?

Unfortunately there is not a cure for blepharitis, but there are a number of things you can do to help control the symptoms. Treatments include:Warm compresses

Wet a clean washcloth with warm water and wring it out until somewhat dry. Place the washcloth over your closed eyes for at least 1 minute. Wet the washcloth as often as needed so it stays warm. This will help loosen the flakes sticking around your eyelashes. It also helps keep nearby oil glands from clogging.

Eyelid scrubs

Soak a clean washcloth, cotton swab (Q-tip) applicator, or lint-free pad in warm water. Then use it to gently scrub the base of your eyelashes. Scrub for about 15 seconds.

Antibiotics

Your ophthalmologist may have you use an antibiotic ointment on your eyes. Put a small amount of ointment on a clean fingertip or a cotton swab (Q-tip). Gently apply the ointment to the base of your eyelashes. Do this just before bedtime, or as your doctor recommends. Your doctor might also prescribe an antibiotic medicine for you to take by mouth.

Eye drops

Artificial tears or steroid eye drops may reduce redness, swelling and dry eye. Your ophthalmologist might prescribe an antibiotic eye drop to help the oil glands work better.

Skin and eyelid hygiene

It is very important to keep your eyelids, skin and hair clean. This keeps your blepharitis symptoms under control. Carefully wash your eyelashes every day with baby shampoo. Also, wash your hair, scalp and eyebrows with an antibacterial shampoo. There are some new antiseptic sprays you can use on the skin that keep bacteria from growing too much.