The eyelids have a very important role in protecting and moisturizing the eyes. When we think of it this way, we might think that the health of our eyelids is directly related to the health of our eyes. But just as we can experience various health problems in our eyes, health problems can also occur in the eyelids. Here we can consider blepharitis as a condition that occurs in the eyelids. Of course, making such a short definition will not be enough. Let’s take a look at what blepharitis is and why it occurs.
What is Blepharitis?
Blepharitis (popularly known as eyelid inflammation) is an inflammation of the eyelid that develops due to many different factors. It typically affects the edges of the eyelid where the eyelashes grow and can occur in both children and adults.
Blepharit can be uncomfortable and cause symptoms such as redness, itching and irritation of the eyelids. It can also cause more serious problems with the eyes and eyelids if it persists for a long time.
We will talk about treatment in more detail, but first let’s talk about the symptoms and what causes blepharitis.
What Causes Blepharitis? Possible Causes
Let us state that it is absolutely necessary to consult a specialist doctor at the point of determining the exact cause. Because, as we will mention below, if we look at the cause, we can talk about many different reasons.
- Obstructions in the Sebaceous Glands in the Eyelids
- Accumulation on the eyelids if the quality of tears is not good enough
- Blockages due to dermatitis
- Bacterial infection states
What are the Symptoms of Blepharitis?
- Red and swollen eyelids
- Itching or burning sensation in the eyes
- Crusty or oily eyelids
- Sensitivity to light
- Sandblasting or foreign body sensation in the eyes
- Abnormal eyelash growth or loss
What is Blepharitis Treatment?
In order to determine a definitive treatment for eyelid inflammation, you should consult a specialist physician. In this way, the cause and the treatment appropriate for this cause can be determined. The treatments we will list below are among the methods that can be applied in the treatment of blepharitis.
Hot Compress Application: If there are blockages in the sebaceous glands and inflammation has developed due to this, hot compress applications can help relieve inflammation and open the sebaceous glands. Of course, the condition of the blockage is also important here.
Ointments and drops: Ointments and drops can be used when deemed necessary by the physician. This should be determined by the doctor.
Use of Anti-inflammatory Drugs: It may be necessary to use medications recommended by the doctor to reduce inflammation. Again, the doctor should make the decision here.
Cleaning the Eyelid: If there is congestion in the eyelids, eyelid cleaning can be performed to remove these blockages. Techniques such as IPL or Lipiflow can be used.
We tried to answer the questions of what is blepharitis, what are the symptoms and how to treat it. As we often repeat in our blog, the doctor’s examination is of great importance here. Do not forget to contact your doctor for the cause and the treatment to be prepared depending on this cause.
