Blepharitis

Blepharitis is common inflammatory disorder which produces a red rimmed appearance to the eyelid edges. It is often chronic and involves both the upper and lower eyelids.

Common symptoms include dandruff –like scales or grainy material sticking to the base of the eyelashes. Eyes may feel burning, sore or itchy and sticky on awakening. The condition cannot necessarily be cured but the symptoms can be controlled with treatment.

Treatment consists of removing all the crusts and debris from the eyelid margins.  Lubricating eyedrops or ointment may help and antibiotic ointment may be recommended in severe cases.

Follow these instructions:

You can buy eyelid cleaning products such as ‘Lidcare’ or ‘Supranettes’ which have a separate cleaning solution with sterile pads or individual pre-moistened wipes from your optometrist or pharmacy. Alternatively mix a solution of half ‘no tears’ baby shampoo and warm water in the cap from the bottle of the baby shampoo and use a clean wet wash cloth or cotton tip applicator.

1. Apply a warm moist hand towel to the closed lids for 5 to 10 minutes in the morning and at bedtime
2. Following the warm compresses at bedtime, use your chosen solution or product and applicator to gently rub from side to side along the upper eyelids and eyelashes for 15-20 seconds. Pull the lower eyelid away from the eyeball and do the same for the lower eyelid and eyelashes avoiding rubbing against the eyeball. Use a fresh pad or wipe for each eye
3. If you are using shampoo rinse the cloth and clean any remaining shampoo from the eyelids with clear, warm water.
4. If instructed by your optometrist use the recommended eyedrops or ointment afterwards
5. Continue this treatment for two to three weeks or until the problem is controlled.  After an initial treatment period you will probably need to continue to use the warm compresses and lid wipes from time to time to keep the condition under control. 

Contact Kathryn Anthony Opticians if you are concerned about your blepharitis or if your symptoms do not improve.