Eyeliditis: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

Blepharitis, or eyelid inflammation, is an inflammation of the edge of the eyelid. To make the effort easier to understand, it is important to remember that there are several glands at the edge of the eyelid that are responsible for secreting different substances. Some of these glands produce oil and are called Meibomian glands. Problems with these glands are the most common cause of blepharitis.

When Meibom’s glands become clogged, they are unable to empty properly and the bacteria in the skin get spread.

In general, this condition affects both of the patient’s creases, usually the area where the eyelashes grow. This is because this area has the most glands in Meibom.

Currently, blepharitis is one of the most common vision problems. Both men and women suffer equally. Eyelid inflammation can occur at any stage of life.

How are blepharitis symptoms?

Patients with eyelid inflammation usually have certain common symptoms. The most common symptoms of blepharitis are:

• Photosensitivity.
• Reddened or leaking eyes. The eyes can also be dry if the glands responsible for lubricating them are blocked.
• Swelling of the eyelids. In addition, they often turn red and look greasy.
• Constant need to blink, as well as burning and discomfort in the eyes. Patients often describe the sensation as having sand in their eyes.

Other common symptoms may include:

• Changes in eyelashes. Eyelashes may fall or start to grow in the wrong direction.

• Dry and scaly skin around the eyes and eyelids. If the problem persists for a long time, long-term scars can form over time.
• Abundant clump around the eyes in the mornings.
• Nipple buttons. These are pimples at the base of the eyelashes. They are usually the result of an infection and usually cause an uncomfortable feeling.
• Eyelid blister. When there is an infection in the sebaceous glands, a patti is formed that includes both the inside and outside of the eyelid. In this case, the result is inflammation of the eyelid and usually also redness.
  
• Chronic conjunctivitis.
• Problems in the cornea due to irritated eyelid or other damage.

Possible causes of blepharitis

Currently, the exact cause of blepharitis is not known, but experts say it can be caused by a number of different factors.

The most common factors are:

• Something is clogging the sebaceous glands of the eyelids. This is often due to a bacterial infection.
• Sebum rash or other skin conditions such as rosacea.
• Dust mites, lice or other organisms on the eyelashes can cause problems in the eyelids.
• Allergic reactions to ingredients that come into contact with the eyes, such as medicines, make-up, etc.

The best treatments

Your doctor should first diagnose the condition as blepharitis by performing a series of tests. Next, she will determine the best treatment option for each case individually.

The most common treatment methods are:

• Treatment of the underlying problem. This is especially true for patients with rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis.
• Antibiotics for the treatment of bacterial inflammation in the sebaceous glands. Usually, the antibiotic is applied topically as eye drops or ointments. Antibiotics can also be taken orally.

• Anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling of the eyes. Usually these come in the form of drops or latches.
• Use of eye drops in patients with dry eyes.
• Antihistamines if blepharitis is caused by an allergy.

Care and hygiene

Good hygiene is important in the treatment of blepharitis. You can do the following two to four times a day:

1. Apply a damp bath or gauze over the eyelids for a few minutes. This makes the clump come off easily when you start removing it with a new damp cloth.
2. Clean the edges of the eyelids by gently rubbing them with another bath moistened with water.
3. Finally, rinse with plenty of warm water. Dry the area thoroughly with a clean towel.