Blepharitis

Blepharitis is an inflammation of your eyelids. It can make eyelids red and eyelashes crusty and make your eyes feel irritated or itchy. It, like dry eye, is a chronic condition that often affects both eyes.

It often causes burning, soreness or stinging in your eyes. In severe cases, your lashes may fall out and you can develop small ulcers or styes along your eyelids. You may find your eyelids become puffy. The symptoms tend to be worse in the morning and as you wake up you may find your lids are stuck together.

It is more common in people aged over 50, but can develop at any age. As we age, the glands in our eyelids that secrete part of our tears can become blocked more easily. The tears then contain fewer lubricants and hence lead to the eyes feeling more gritty and dry.

You often need consistent treatment for several months to make your eyes feel more comfortable, but often blepharitis cannot be totally cured.

Avoiding eye make-up and smoky atmospheres helps those who are suffering from blepharitis.
Good and effective eyelid hygiene is paramount in managing blepharitis.

Warm compresses, over the counter lid wipes/solution-such as ‘Blephasol’ and eye lubricants often help. In severe cases oral antibiotics may be prescribed.