Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Blefaritis, Inflammation of the eyelids

News Health Articles - Blefaritis, Inflammation of the eyelids.

Description

Blefaritis is an inflammation of the eyelid where the eyelashes grow. Blefaritis occurs when oil glands located near the base of the eyelashes were damaged, causing inflammation, irritation, and itching of the eyelids. Some diseases and other conditions can cause blefaritis.



Blefaritis often a chronic condition that is difficult to treat. Blefaritis can be uncomfortable, but usually does not cause permanent damage to eyesight.

Symptom

Blefaritis Signs and symptoms include:
1. Watery eyes
2. Red eye
3. Burning sensation in the eyes
4. The oily eyelids
5. Itching of the eyelids
6. Red and swelling on the eyelid
7. Exfoliation of the skin around the eyes
8. Crusty eyelashes when you wake up
9. Sensitive to light
10. Eyelashes that appear abnormal or misdirected
11. Loss of eyelashes

Cause

Blefaritis occurs when oil glands located near the base of the eyelashes were damaged. But too often a chronic condition, which means it may require long-term care.

Diseases and conditions that can cause blefaritis include:
1. Seborrheic dermatitis, dandruff of the scalp and eyebrows
2. Bacterial infections
3. The destruction of the oil glands of the eyelid
4. Rosacea, a skin disease characterized by facial flushing
5. Allergies, including allergic reactions to eye medications, contact lenses, or eye makeup
6. Mite

Treatments and drugs

Treatment for blefaritis may include:
1. Clean the affected area regularly. Clean the eyelid with a warm washcloth can help control the signs and symptoms.

2. Antibiotic. Using eye drops containing antibiotics on the eyelid can help control blefaritis caused by bacterial infection. In certain cases, antibiotics are given in the form of creams, ointments or pills.

3. Steroid eye drops or ointment. Eye drops or ointment containing steroids can help control the inflammation of the eyes and eyelids.

4. Artificial tears. Eye drops or artificial tears are available without a prescription can help ease dry eye.

5. Treating the underlying condition. Blefaritis can also be caused by seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea or other diseases can be controlled by treating the underlying disease.

Blefaritis rarely disappears completely, and often recur.

Sources: MayoClinic

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