Also known as: inflammation of the eyelids

What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a benign, often recurring inflammation or infection of the eyelids. It can become chronic lasting into adulthood.

What causes blepharitis?

Usually clogging of the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes is the cause of blepharitis. This can occur due to bacterial infections (staphylococcus most commonly), abnormal production of the oil-making glands, allergies, dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis), rosacea or other problems.

What are the symptoms of blepharitis?

Symptoms of blepharitis include redness, swelling and crusting of the eyelids, a burning or stinging eye sensation, itchy eyes, and eyelashes that either grow abnormally or are lost.

What are blepharitis care options?

Curing blepharitis may be difficult so treatment aims to reduce the severity of symptoms. Treatments include; eyelid washing daily, warm wet compresses for 15 minutes a number of times a day, ensuring hands and face are kept clean, antibiotic ointments for the eyes to prevent local spread of infection and managing any underlying condition.

Reviewed by: Jack Wolfsdorf, MD, FAAP

This page was last updated on: 9/9/2019 12:20:29 PM