Blepharitis Treatment
Blepharitis is a condition where the lids of the eye seem to have dry skin issues such as scaling, itching, chafing, flaking of the skin, and rash-type feelings and symptoms.
In the severe state, blepharitis can cause irregular tear production and show up as waxy scales around the lashes for the upper and lower lids. Hormones, nutrition, and general health conditions may contribute to blepharitis. Even stress can play a role in the blepharitis patient.
There are two types of blepharitis. The first and most common type is often part of an overall skin condition where the skin is just simply too dry. This is common in patients that also suffer from dry scalp (dander), chest skin and back of the ears and hairline.
The second form of blepharitis is from a staph infection caused by bacteria that begins in childhood and may continue through adulthood. Left untreated, this form of blepharitis can cause small ulcers, loss of eyelashes, eyelid scarring and even red eye syndrome.
Our doctors can diagnose which form of blepharitis the patient has and treat the condition based upon this diagnosis. It starts with careful cleaning of the eyelids to prevent the condition from worsening. Application of hot packs to the eyes for 20 minutes a day can also help. Staph infection type blepharitis may require a prescription therapy in order to correct the issues. The doctors at Holec and Young Eye Care have antibiotic drops and ointments for these conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Blepharitis
The staph infection type of blepharitis is caused by bacteria and can be associated with active infection, but it’s not typically considered easily spread person-to-person through normal contact. The dry-skin type is not contagious at all, since it’s related to skin condition rather than infection.
Blepharitis is usually a chronic, ongoing condition rather than something that resolves permanently on its own. While symptoms can improve with consistent eyelid hygiene and treatment, most patients need to manage it long-term to keep symptoms under control.
A stye is a localized, painful bump caused by a blocked gland, while blepharitis is a broader inflammation affecting the entire eyelid margin. However, patients with blepharitis are often more prone to developing styes, since both conditions involve the eyelid’s oil glands.
Most patients benefit from daily eyelid hygiene, often paired with warm compresses, even once symptoms improve. Your optometrist can recommend a specific routine and products based on which type of blepharitis you have.
Yes — blepharitis and dry eye syndrome are closely connected, since inflamed eyelids can disrupt the oil layer of your tears, leading to increased dryness and irritation. Patients with one condition often experience symptoms of the other.
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