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Blepharitis

Date issued: January 2024

Review date: January 2026

Ref: C-518/MS/Ophthalmology/Blepharitis v3

PDF:  Blepharitis 2024 v3.pdf[pdf] 81KB

What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a common disorder of the eye-lids, an inflammation of the edges of the lids.  It usually affects both eyes and may cause persistent and annoying symptoms.

Symptoms

One or more of the following may be present:

  • Itchy lids

  • Red swollen lids

  • Burning sensation on lids

  • Crusting on the lashes

  • Foreign body sensation or a feeling of something in the eyes.

Causes  

  • Infection

  • Dandruff

  • Allergy to make-up

  • Acne Rosacea  

Treatment

The aim is to keep the lids clean and free from crusts and inflammation.

A warm moist face cloth applied to the eyes for 5-10 minutes before cleaning will help loosen the crusts.

Use a cotton bud or a face cloth around a finger moistened with plain warm water, or a solution of weak no-tears baby shampoo.

Gently but firmly scrub along the edges of the eyelids to remove any crusts.

Clean from the inner corner of the eye outwards.

This should be performed twice a day for 2 weeks or more; at least until symptoms start to improve once a day.  Every other day may be enough after this.

Things you can do to help

Dandruff:  Treat dandruff in the hair with an anti-dandruff shampoo.

Make-up: Stop using or change brand to a hypoallergenic one.

Keep applicators clean.

Renew mascara wand frequently.

Treatment will often be needed to be continued indefinitely.

The condition often returns if treatment is stopped.

Sometimes Blepharitis is severe enough to necessitate a steroid cream, antibiotic ointment, or tablets.

Associated conditions

  • Stye

  • Meibomian cyst

  • Dry eyes

If you have any questions or problems, please phone the Urgent Care Department at the Royal Eye Infirmary.

TEL: 01752 439330

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