Blepharitis is a painful eye condition. It causes inflammation along the edge of the eyelids. This condition occurs when the oil glands at the base of the eyelids become clogged. It can also be caused by certain diseases and conditions. At Des Plaines Eye Care Center in Des Plaines, IL, our eye doctors can treat this condition.
What Causes Blepharitis?
This condition can be caused by clogged oil glands in the eyelids. It can also be caused if the oil glands are malfunctioning. The other causes include:
- Dandruff on the scalp or eyebrows
- Rosacea, which is a condition characterized by facial redness
- Allergic reaction to makeup, contact lens solution, or eye medications
- Dry eyes
- Eyelash mites or lice
- Infection
What Are the Symptoms of Blepharitis?
There are many symptoms of blepharitis, and they are usually worse in the morning. The symptoms include:
- A gritty sensation in the eyes
- Feeling like there is something in your eyes
- Itchy eyelids
- Red eyes
- Watery eyes
- Skin flaking around the eyes
- Eyelid sticking
- Crusty eyelashes
- Red, swollen eyelids
- Needing to blink frequently
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurry vision, which clears up with blinking
How Is Blepharitis Diagnosed?
Blepharitis can be diagnosed during an eye exam. Our optometrist will use a magnifying instrument to examine your eyes and eyelids to check for the signs and causes of your condition.
Our optometrist may also use a swab to collect a sample of the crust or oil that forms on your eyelid. We will test the sample for the presence of an allergy, bacteria, or fungi. Our eye doctor will need to know what is causing the condition so she can prescribe the correct medication.
How Is Blepharitis Treated?
This condition can be treated with medication and home care treatment. The medications include:
- Antibiotics: If your condition is due to an infection, our eye doctor will prescribe antibiotics. These medications come in eyedrops, ointments, and creams.
- Steroid drops: These drops are used to control the inflammation caused by the condition.
- Restasis: This is a medication that can relieve the symptoms of blepharitis by affecting the immune system.
- Treating the underlying condition: If your condition is caused by rosacea, dermatitis, or any other condition, treating the condition will treat blepharitis.
At home, our eye doctor will recommend that you put warm compresses on your eye a couple times a day. This condition rarely goes away completely and often requires daily care and eyelid scrubs.
Visit Our Optometrist
If you are experiencing the symptoms of blepharitis, don’t wait to get treatment. At Des Plaines Eye Care Center in Des Plaines, IL, our team of experts can treat blepharitis. To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call us today.
