Eyelid Inflammation (Blepharitis)

Your eyelids are the folds of skin that cover your eyes and protect them from debris and injury. Your eyelids also have lashes with short, curved hair follicles on the edge of the lids. These follicles contain oil glands. These oil glands can sometimes become clogged or irritated, which can trigger certain eyelid disorders. One of these disorders is known as eyelid inflammation, or blepharitis.

Causes of eyelid inflammation

The exact cause of eyelid inflammation cannot always be determined, but different factors may increase your risk of blepharitis. For example, you may have a higher risk if you also have dandruff on your scalp or eyebrows. It’s also possible to have an allergic reaction to makeup or other cosmetic products you apply around your eyes, triggering eyelid inflammation.

These aren’t the only possible causes. Other causes or risk factors for eyelid inflammation include:

• having eyelash mites or lice
• bacterial infection
• medication side effects
• a malfunctioning oil gland

Anterior eye inflammation occurs on the outside of your eye where your eyelashes are located. Dandruff on your eyebrows and allergic reactions in your eyes can cause anterior eyelid inflammation.

Posterior eyelid inflammation occurs on the inner edge of eyelids closest to your eye. A malfunctioning oil gland behind your eyelash follicles usually causes this form of inflammation.

Symptoms of eyelid inflammation

• itchy eyelids
• swollen eyelids
• red or inflamed eyelids
• a burning sensation in the eyes
• oily eyelids
• a feeling that something is in or on your eyes

Diagnosing eyelid inflammation

An eye doctor can diagnose eyelid inflammation. In some cases, a physical examination of your eye is enough to diagnose the condition. Your doctor can also closely examine your eyelids using a specialized magnifying tool. This eye examination checks your eyes for inflammation as well as the presence of bacteria, fungi, or viruses, which can indicate an infection.

If there are symptoms of an infection, your doctor will swab your eye and take a sample of any fluid seeping from your eyes. This sample is then examined under a microscope.

Treating eyelid inflammation

Steroid treatment

If you don’t have an infection, your doctor may prescribe steroids, eye drops, or ointment to reduce inflammation. Your doctor may also prescribe lubricating eye drops to stop irritation caused by dry eyes.

Antibiotics

A course of antibiotics may effectively treat eyelid infections. Your doctor can prescribe antibiotic medication in pill, ointment, or liquid drop form. Doctors often prescribe drops when an infection spreads beyond the eyelid.

Media Contact:
Sarah Rose
Journal Manager Journal of Eye Diseases and Disorders
Email: eyedisorders@emedsci.com
Whatsapp:+1-947-333-4405