What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a chronic or long term inflammation of the eyelids and eyelashes. It affects people of all ages.  Among the most common causes of blepharitis are poor eyelid hygiene; excessive oil produced by the glands in the eyelid; a bacterial infection (often staphylococcal); or an allergic reaction. Blepharitis usually causes burning, itching and irritation of the lids. In severe cases, it may also cause styes, irritation and inflammation of the cornea (keratitis) and conjunctiva (conjunctivitis).  Some patients have no symptoms at all.

Forms of Blepharitis

Blepharitis, while invariably chronic, comes in three forms: Staphylococcal, Seborrheic, and Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD).  It is defined as the chronic inflammation of the eyelids, and is one of the most commonly diagnosed eye disorders today.  It is a leading cause of redness, tearing, and overall discomfort.  The most common associated symptoms are chronic red eye, dry eye, marginal ulcers, and phlyctenules.

• Staphylococcal Blepharitis

Staphylococcal Blepharitis is caused by the 'Staph' bacteria, and is most often characterized by dense crusts around a patient's eyelashes. These formations may cause the patient discomfort when trying to open their eyes in the morning.  With this form of Blepharitis, the patient can experience a loss of eyelashes, formation of a sty, or upon removal of the crusts a possibility for small ulcers. The traditional treatment for this form of Blepharitis is antibiotic ointment, sometimes offset with warm compresses and enhanced care in regards to lid hygiene. In extreme cases, steroids may be used for marginal ulcers.

• Seborrheic Blepharitis

Seborrheic Blepharitis exhibits similar symptoms but appears differently on the patient's eye. Where Staph based Blepharitis is dry and crust-like, Seborrheic Blepharitis is greasy and akin to scales.  Patients suffering from this form of Blepharitis also suffer from Sebhorrheic Dermatitis.  The standard treatment here is extra care in lid hygiene through use of lid scrubs and warm compresses.

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

A working Meibomian Gland produces oily secretions which form an integral part of the tear film. When this gland fails to function properly, it can secrete abnormal oily substances.  This causes an erratic tear film and can result in eye irritation, as well as chronic dry eye.  The treatment for this form of Blepharitis is lid scrubs, antibiotic ointment, and sometimes tetracycline, taken orally.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

It is important to note that Blepharitis is a chronic condition, and patients diagnosed with it must take extra care to keep their eyelids as clean as possible, as frequently as possible.  At the Benjamin Eye Institute, we will be happy to give you the easiest, most convenient and effective ways to accomplish this.

Blepharitis Hygiene 

The key to controlling blepharitis is to keep the eyelids and eyelashes clean.