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Blepharitis, Types + Causes

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid that commonly occurs when oil glands at the base of the eyelashes become clogged, causing dandruff-like deposits to form on the eyelashes. This can create red, itchy, irritated eyes.

Blepharitis is a common eye disorder caused by either bacteria or a skin condition, like dandruff of the scalp.

Types + Causes of Blepharitis

There are two types of blepharitis: anterior blepharitis and posterior blepharitis.

Anterior blepharitis occurs where the eyelash attaches to the eyelid and is commonly caused by bacteria commonly found on the face and eyelids. When the bacteria become excessive, infection is common. Anterior blepharitis can also be caused by allergies or a mite infestation of the eyelashes.

Posterior blepharitis occurs on the edge of the eyelid that touches the eyeball and is commonly caused when the eyelid glands over produce a naturally occurring oil, leading to bacterial growth. Posterior blepharitis can also develop because of other skin conditions like scalp dandruff or rosacea.

Blepharitis, Types + Causes

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid that commonly occurs when oil glands at the base of the eyelashes become clogged, causing dandruff-like deposits to form on the eyelashes. This can create red, itchy, irritated eyes.

Blepharitis is a common eye disorder caused by either bacteria or a skin condition, like dandruff of the scalp.

Types + Causes of Blepharitis

There are two types of blepharitis: anterior blepharitis and posterior blepharitis.

Anterior blepharitis occurs where the eyelash attaches to the eyelid and is commonly caused by bacteria commonly found on the face and eyelids. When the bacteria become excessive, infection is common. Anterior blepharitis can also be caused by allergies or a mite infestation of the eyelashes.

Posterior blepharitis occurs on the edge of the eyelid that touches the eyeball and is commonly caused when the eyelid glands over produce a naturally occurring oil, leading to bacterial growth. Posterior blepharitis can also develop because of other skin conditions like scalp dandruff or rosacea.

Symptoms of Blepharitis

Blepharitis symptoms can include:

  • Red, swollen eyelids
  • Watery eyes
  • Flaking of the skin around the eyes
  • Crusted eyelids
  • A gritty or burning sensation in the eyes
  • Eyelids that appear greasy
  • Itchy eyelids
  • Eyelid sticking
  • More frequent blinking
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Blurred vision that usually improves with blinking

Blepharitis can lead to other eye conditions including:

  • Eyelash and eyelid skin problems
  • Excessive tearing or dry eyes
  • A stye or chalazion
  • Chronic pink eye
  • Injury to the cornea or corneal infections
Treatment for Blepharitis

Treatment depends on the type of blepharitis. The most important part of keeping blepharitis under control is to keep the lids clean and free of crust deposits. Warm compresses and eyelid scrubs are at-home treatments that can manage symptoms.

Other treatments available from Rottman Eye Care include antibiotics and eye drops. Rottman Eye Care can also refer patients to ICON Eyecare for specialized in-office treatments and procedures.

 

Blepharitis Treatment with eye drops - Rottman Eye Care