What is blepharitis, does it cause and how is it treated?
Blepharitis, caused by inflammation of the eyelids, is a common eye condition. It manifests itself with symptoms such as itching, burning, redness. In this article, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of blepharitis. Are you ready to learn this important information to protect your eye health? Keep reading!
Things you should know about blepharitis
Blepharitis, a common eye condition that can occur at almost any age, is an inflammation of the eye. Blepharitis, which can be treated, can recur after recovery. Blepharitis, which does not cause permanent vision damage and poses no risk of blindness, can sometimes become chronic.
Blepharitis also causes diseases such as dry eyes and ingrown eyelashes. Oily skin helps to cause blepharitis, but it also allows bacteria to multiply. Therefore, as with other eye diseases, you should pay attention to hygiene and cleanse your skin regularly.
Blepharitis, which is graded in two different groups, is called anterior and posterior blepharitis. It is examined in two groups as a result of formation form and location. Blepharitis can be observed both acutely and chronically.
Anterior blepharitis: The outer edge of the eyelid and the underside of the eyelashes are affected. Having an oily and dandruff skin type is one of the main factors that cause anterior blepharitis. Oily and dandruffy skin allows bacteria to multiply, which helps develop anterior blepharitis.
Posterior blepharitis: It occurs in the inner part of the eyelid that touches the eye. Posterior blepharitis occurs due to abnormal functioning of the sebaceous glands in the eyelids and directly affects the eye.
What Causes Blepharitis?
Blepharitis is an eye condition characterized by inflammation of the eyelid margins. This condition occurs due to insufficient cleaning of the eyelids or clogged sebaceous glands of the eyelids. While it is not known exactly what causes blepharitis, several factors may contribute to the development of this condition.
Bacterial infections
The natural bacterial flora on the edge of the eyelids can sometimes overgrow and cause infection. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus are one of the most common causes of blepharitis. These bacteria cause the sebaceous glands of the eyelids to become clogged and inflamed.
Demodex mites
Mites called Demodex folliculorum and Demodex brevis are microscopic organisms that live on the edges of the eyelids. While these mites do not normally harm eye health, in some cases they can overgrow. Overgrowth of Demodex mites can lead to blepharitis.
Dysfunction of sebaceous glands
The sebaceous glands (meibomian glands) in the eyelids secrete an oily fluid that keeps the eyes moist. Blockage of these glands can lead to reduced oil production or deterioration of its quality. Dysfunction of the sebaceous glands can contribute to blepharitis.
Skin conditions
Blepharitis can be associated with some skin diseases. For example, skin conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis or rosacea can cause inflammation of the eyelids and lead to blepharitis.
Poor eye hygiene
Not cleaning the eyelids regularly can lead to buildup of dead skin cells, dirt and makeup residue around the eyes and inflammation. This predisposes to blepharitis.
What Are the Symptoms of Blepharitis?
Blepharitis is an eye condition caused by inflammation of the eyelid margins. The symptoms of blepharitis can vary from person to person and vary depending on the severity of the condition. Here are the most common symptoms of blepharitis:
1. Itching and burning of the eyelids
When blepharitis causes inflammation at the edges of the eyelids, it is usually manifested by itching and a burning sensation. These symptoms may indicate eye irritation and discomfort.
2. Redness and swelling of the eyelids
Blepharitis can cause enlargement of blood vessels and inflammation at the edges of the eyelids. This causes the eyelids to become red and swollen. The eyelids can sometimes appear soft and swollen.
3. Scaling and crusting on the eyelids
Blepharitis can cause symptoms such as scaling and crusting due to a buildup of oil, dirt, and dead skin cells on the eyelids. These symptoms cause a feeling of uncleanness in the eyelids and are sometimes accompanied by a constant feeling of discomfort in the eyes.
4. Tenderness in the eyelids
Blepharitis can make the eyelids feel tender due to inflammation and swelling at the edges of the eyelids. Discomfort can occur even when the eyelids are lightly touched or when the eyelids are closed.
5. Dry and watery eyes
Blepharitis can affect the moisture balance of the eyes by blocking the sebaceous glands of the eyelids. This can result in a feeling of dry eyes and, paradoxically, more tears in the eyes.
6. Loss of eyelashes
Blepharitis can cause eyelashes to fall out with inflammation of the eyelids. Thinning, breakage, or breakage of eyelashes can occur.
What diseases does blepharitis cause?
Blepharitis is a condition that occurs when the edges of the eyelids become inflamed. This can affect eye health and, in some cases, contribute to the onset of other diseases. Here are some diseases that blepharitis can cause:
Conjunctivitis
Blepharitis can increase the risk of conjunctivitis (eye inflammation) when it causes inflammation of the eyelids and foul oil production. Inflamed fluids that accumulate on the eyelids can come into contact with the surface of the eye and cause conjunctivitis. In this case, symptoms such as redness, tearing, a stinging sensation and sensitivity to light appear in the eyes.
Corneal infections
Blepharitis can increase the risk of infection in the cornea due to the inflamed and dirty eyelids. Corneal infections are a serious eye condition and can cause vision loss if left untreated. People with blepharitis can get corneal infections as a result of not cleaning the eyelids or the inflammatory secretions coming into contact with the cornea.
Dry eye syndrome
Blepharitis can disrupt the fluid balance of the surface of the eye by causing dysfunction of the sebaceous glands of the eyelids. This condition can cause a condition known as dry eye syndrome. Dry eye syndrome is a condition that occurs due to insufficient moistening of the eyes. It manifests with symptoms such as dry eyes, burning sensation, itching, blurred vision and tired eyes.
blepharoconjunctivitis
Blepharoconjunctivitis is a term that refers to the combination of blepharitis and conjunctivitis. Inflammation of the eyelids and production of dirty oil can cause the symptoms of conjunctivitis. In this case, symptoms such as redness, swelling, itching, lacrimation and sensitivity to light appear on the eyelids.
Blepharitis diagnosis and treatment
Blepharitis is an eye condition caused by inflammation of the eyelid margins. The diagnosis and treatment of blepharitis is usually done by an ophthalmologist or eye care professional. Here’s some information you should know about the diagnosis and treatment of blepharitis:
Cleaning the eyelids
The most important step in the treatment of blepharitis is regular cleaning of the eyelids. Your doctor may recommend cleaning your eyelids with a mild cleansing solution or baby shampoo. Cleaning is carried out by gently massaging the edges of the eyelids and then rinsing with warm water.
Hot application
Applying warm compresses can be helpful in treating blepharitis. To do this, you can apply a clean cloth or cotton pad moistened with warm water to your eyelids and wait 5-10 minutes. Applying hot helps reduce inflammation by unclogging the sebaceous glands.
Antibiotic pomade or eye drops
If the cause of the blepharitis is a bacterial infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic ointments or eye drops. These drugs can speed up recovery by controlling the infection.
Treatment for Demodex mites
If Demodex mites are the cause of blepharitis, your doctor may recommend special acaricidal shampoos or lotions. These products help control blepharitis by preventing mites from multiplying.
Cleaning of the sebaceous glands in the eyelids
In some cases, your doctor may recommend cleaning the meibomian glands to unclog the sebaceous glands of the eyelids. For this, a special device or a warm massage can be applied.
The treatment of blepharitis can vary depending on the individual situation, and the course of treatment can often be lengthy. Following your doctor’s recommendations and performing regular eye care can help you manage blepharitis and relieve symptoms. It is also important to have regular checkups so that your doctor can determine the most appropriate treatment for you.
How is blepharitis treated?
In the treatment of blepharitis, the eyelashes are cleaned. Eyelash bases are cleaned with shampoos. If there is an infection, antibiotic creams for infection are applied to the underside of the eyelashes. Artificial tears are also used to treat blepharitis.
What Happens If Blepharitis Is Not Treated?
The condition worsens if blepharitis is not treated. Inflammation goes to other parts of the eye, a serious condition occurs. Bacteria infect the eyelid. Small scab wounds occur, even eyelashes can fall off.
Will blepharitis go away on its own?
If blepharitis is mild, it causes redness and an abscess-like swelling similar to acne. Usually it goes away on its own. Inflammation drains to the base of the eyelashes or to another area. In cases where it does not pass, it is imperative to submit an application to the hospital.
How many times a day to use eye shampoo for blepharitis?
It is appropriate to use the eye shampoo, which is good for blepharitis, several times a day. Shampoo helps to eliminate blepharitis disease. Thanks to the components it contains, it removes inflammation.
What if blepharitis progresses?
If the disease progresses, permanent damage to the eyelids and eyes can occur. Patients diagnosed with blepharitis should receive medical treatment. The disease may recur in some people after recovery.
Do eyelashes that fall out due to blepharitis grow back?
If left untreated, blepharitis will lead to dry eyes in the long run. For this reason eyelashes fall out, new eyelashes do not come out. It must be treated quickly by specialist doctors.
