Eyelids are the thin skin folds covering our eyes. We use them to blink an astonishing 15-20 times per minute/1,200 times an hour to keep our eyes moist and dust-free. Eyelids block out the light when we sleep. And for some, eyelids are a canvas for applying colorful powders and mascara. From time-to-time, eyelids can develop infections that cause them to become swollen and sore. This condition is called Blepharitis.

Types of Blepharitis

There are two types of Blepharitis, anterior, meaning the outside/front of the lid, and posterior, which is the inner part of the lid, next to the eyeball itself.

Photo of a stye in the eye/Blepharitis

Photo Credit: Andre Riemann

Anterior Blepharitis is caused by bacterial infections or scalp dandruff. Posterior Blepharitis tends to be caused by clogged oil glands known as the meibomian glands. These glands can become infected due to acne rosacea or scalp dandruff.

In some cases, parasites (Demodex eyelash mites) can cause the infection. Blepharitis often occurs with pink eye (conjunctivitis), a stye (a tender, red lump near the eyelashes) and/ or a chalazion (a painless, firm lump).

Symptoms of Blepharitis

  • inflamed, red eyelids
  • burning eyes
  • crusty debris at the base of the lid
  • watery eyes
  • dry eyes

 

Treatment

The most important aspect of treating Blepharitis, according to the National Eye Institute is keeping the eyelid clean. As it is difficult to get rid of, people who get this infection will need to practice good eyelid hygiene for the rest of their lives to keep recurring infections to a minimum. To keep the eyelid clean, a warm compress on the lid will help to soften the crusty bits on the eyelashes, then a diluted solution of water and baby shampoo is used with a clean, fresh cotton swab to gently and carefully scrub the debris away. A fresh cotton swab should be used for each eye to avoid cross-contamination.

If the above solution doesn’t work, your eye-care professional may prescribe antibiotics or, if needed, steroid eyedrops.

In the cases where scalp dandruff present, then dandruff shampoo for the scalp is recommended. Similarly, acne rosacea is causing the infection, then acne treatment under the care of a dermatologist is recommended. By treating these other contributing factors, it can help to reduce the cause of inflammation in the eyelid.