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►What are the risk factors of Blepharitis?
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Definition|
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Blepharitis is a common condition where the
edges of the eyelids become red and swollen. Blepharitis usually involves the
part of the eyelid where the eyelashes grow and affects both eyelids.
The word "blepharitis" is derived
from the Greek word blepharos, which means "eyelid," and the Greek
suffix itis, which is typically used in English to denote an inflammation.
Inflammation is the process by which white blood cells and the body's chemicals
react to and protect us from foreign substances, injury, or infection. Signs of
inflammation are eye swelling, redness, pain, warmth, and often change in
function.
Blepharitis is often a chronic condition
that is difficult to treat. Blepharitis can be uncomfortable and may be
unsightly. But it usually doesn't cause permanent damage to your eyesight, and
it's not contagious.
Symptoms|
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Signs and symptoms of blepharitis are
usually present in both eyes, affecting the upper and lower lids. They can
appear at any age. Symptoms (what one feels in the eyes or eyelids) include:
Itchy, sore and red eyelids that stick
together
Crusty or greasy eyelashes
A burning, gritty sensation in your eyes
Increased sensitivity to light
(photophobia)
Swollen eyelid margins
Finding contact lenses uncomfortable to
wear
Abnormal eyelash growth or loss of
eyelashes in severe cases
In most cases both eyes are affected, but
one eye can be more affected than the other. The symptoms tend to be worse in
the morning.
Causes|
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Blepharitis involves the eyelid margins,
where the eyelashes grow and the openings of the tiny oil glands are located.
There may be involvement of the skin adjacent to the outer edges of the eyelid
margins and/or the inner edge of the eyelid that comes into contact with the
eyeball secondary to the underlying disorder of the lid margins.
There are three main types of blepharitis:
Anterior blepharitis – where the inflammation affects the skin around the base of your
eyelashes
Posterior blepharitis – where the inflammation affects your Meibomian glands, found along
the eyelid margins behind the base of the eyelashes
Mixed blepharitis – a combination of both anterior and posterior blepharitis.
The exact cause of blepharitis isn't clear.
It may be associated with one or more factors, including:
Seborrheic dermatitis — dandruff of the
scalp and eyebrows
A bacterial infection
Clogged or malfunctioning oil glands in
your eyelids
Rosacea — a skin condition characterized by
facial redness
Allergies, including allergic reactions to
eye medications, contact lens solutions or eye makeup
Eyelash mites or lice
