If you notice flaking, crusting, or other changes in the areas near your eyelids, you may have a condition known as blepharitis.

Far too many men, women, and children in and around Decatur, Alabama, live with blepharitis for years before seeking treatment from Charles D. Woods, MD, at Eye and Cataract Associates. Don’t delay seeking care for vision changes or unusual skin conditions around your eyes. Book an appointment at our office by phone.

Blepharitis Q & A

What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a condition characterized by inflammation in your eyelids. It’s most often found along your lash line, and most sufferers experience blepharitis in both eyes.

The condition is often chronic, although certain diseases and conditions can cause blepharitis. It’s not contagious and usually has no negative impact on your vision. That said, the symptoms associated with blepharitis can be troublesome.

What are the symptoms of blepharitis?

Your experience of blepharitis may be different from that of others. While you’re unlikely to experience all of these symptoms, some of the more common signs of blepharitis include:

  • Eye redness

  • Sensitivity to light

  • Flaky skin near your eyes

  • Itchy eyelids

  • Swollen eyelids

  • Watery eyes

  • Frequent need to blink

  • Loss or abnormal growth of eyelashes

Left untreated, blepharitis can cause the following complications:

  • Dry eyes

  • Excessive tearing

  • Stys

  • Chalazions

  • Chronic pink eye

  • Eyelid edges that turn outward or inward

  • Inability to wear contact lenses

  • Corneal ulcers or infection

How is blepharitis treated?

In some cases, self-care efforts are all you need to control blepharitis. One of the most important steps you can take is to close your eyes and place a warm compress over your eyelids to loosen crusting and help liquify the oil near the openings of your eyelid oil glands.

Gently rubbing the skin at the base of your eyelashes with a cotton swab, lint-free pad, or washcloth covered finger can help remove flaking or crusting and unblock oil glands. If you’re suffering from dry eyes, artificial tears can help restore proper moisture levels.

Prescription medications can also be an effective treatment path. Antibiotics in cream or pill form can help fight infection. Steroid eye drops or ointments can help control inflammation. If you have an underlying condition that’s causing blepharitis, treating that issue can provide relief.

During treatment, you may want to avoid wearing makeup or using skin care products on or around your eyelids. Layering cosmetics or lotions onto your eyelids can make it harder for your body to respond to treatment efforts and can also increase the risk of infection.

If you’d like to explore diagnostic and treatment options for blepharitis, book a visit with Dr. Woods at your earliest convenience.