What is blepharitis?
Blepharitis is a common problem and although it does not result in blindness, it can contribute to red, irritated eyes. In the most common form of blepharitis, the lids are reddened, somewhat swollen and scaly appearing at the base of the lashes. As scales become more coarse, the surface of the eye is irritated, forming crusts, which may cause the lids to stick together when waking up in the morning. If the debris falls into your eye, you may feel like you have “something in your eye” or experience a gritty sensation.
Treating blepharitis
Ophthalmologists at the Cole Eye Institute usually recommend controlling the problem through eyelid hygiene.
Eyelid hygiene is cleansing the lid to promote a normal ocular surface. It is important to cleanse so that it does not develop into a more serious condition. Blepharitis cannot be cured, however, with eyelid hygiene done on a daily basis, the symptoms may be controlled.
Cleansing the eye
- Take a clean washcloth and wet it in very warm water. Wring the washcloth and place it over the closed eyelids for five minutes. Re-wet as necessary to maintain desired temperature. This will help to soften crusts and loosen oily debris.
- Place the warm, wet washcloth over the index finger and apply a diluted solution of 50 percent baby shampoo.
- Cleanse one eye at a time, closing the eye you are cleansing, and rubbing the washcloth or your finger over the eyelashes and lid margins several times using horizontal strokes.
- Rinse thoroughly with a clean, warm, wet washcloth. Pat dry. Additional care for blepharitis.
Additional care for blepharitis
Keep your hands and face clean. Be careful not to touch or rub your eyes with soiled handkerchiefs, dirty fingers, etc. Women should avoid the use of eye makeup during the early stages of treatment. When cosmetic use is resumed, replace liquid products because your old products may be contaminated. Remove all eye makeup before bedtime. If these methods fail to relieve symptoms, other treatment modalities may become necessary
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