Blepharitis with OPSM Silverdale

Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids, which usually involves the part where the eyelashes grow. Blepharitis is often a chronic condition that is difficult to treat and requires ongoing care.

Causes of blepharitis can involve multiple factors. It can be related to bacterial infection, eyelash mites (i.e. demodex), clogged oils in eyelids, rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis.

Common symptoms of blepharitis include:

Red, swollen eyes; watery eyes; crusted eyelashes upon awakening; eyelid sticking; eyelashes that grow abnormally (misdirected eyelashes); a gritty, burning or stinging sensation in the eyes; itchy eyelids; loss of eyelashes; more frequent blinking; sensitivity to light.

Long-term complications such as misdirected eyelashes can possibly damage the cornea and leave permanent damage to vision – and scarring on eyelids can turn eyelid edges inwards or outwards, causing excess tearing or dry eyes. Depending on the severity and cause of the condition, treatment options can vary. It can involve simple daily routine warm compress on eyelids (to loosen and soften eyelid gland deposits) and lid scrub to maintain the lid hygiene, and it may require using topical antibiotics/steroids or oral antibiotics.

Daily regimen of warm compresses and gentle eyelid scrub helps to reduce excess build-up of bacteria, demodex mites and removes biofilm from lid margins. Cleaning agents for the eyelid scrub may include Sterilid, Blephadex (Blephadex contains tea tree oils which are effective against demodex), Systane lid wipes, or diluted baby shampoo.

Eyelid hygiene tips

Eyelid hygiene regime is effective only if performed properly.

Lid scrub is more effective if you begin with warm compress to melt any blocked residue in the oil-secreting meibomian glands in your eyelids. Warm compress can be done by placing clean washcloth dampened with warm water over closed eyelids for several minutes (minimum 5 minutes). Then gentle massage around/over closed eyelids is required before opening eyes.

Followed by warm compress, lid scrub is done with one of the cleaning agents listed above.

It is not uncommon for blepharitis to be co-managed by Optometrists, Ophthalmologists, Dermatologists and General Practitioners, depending on underlying causes and if you are suffering from any of the related symptoms. It is important to get it diagnosed first by seeing one of us.

by James Park, Optometrist BOptom TPA Endorsement | OPSM Silverdale

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