If your eye are always irritated, you might be experiencing blepharitis. What is it? Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelashes and plugging of the oil glands of the eyelids. You might experience the following symptoms: crusting, redness, itching, and/or burning.
Blepharitis is also commonly associated with dry eyes and rosacea. People who have blepharitis are also more likely to have styes or chalazia of the eyelids.
Treating blepharitis adequately can be different for everyone. Here are some common treatments:
–Daily cleansing of the edges of the eyelids with dilute baby shampoo
–Warm compresses held to the eyelids (eyes closed) to help open the plugged oil glands
–Antibiotic ointments to help decrease bacteria on the eyelids, if necessary.
What if this is not working? You should see your doctor for a complete eye exam. There are also new intense, pulsed-light system treatments that can be used to treat patients with certain types and severity of blepharitis. Ask your doctor!
– Preeya K. Gupta, M.D.
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