What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis (blef-uh-RYE-tis) is a common eyelid inflammation that can develop at any age.

Blepharitis occurs when tiny oil glands located near the base of the eyelashes become clogged, leading to swollen, irritated and red eyes.

Several diseases and conditions can cause blepharitis, such as dry eyes. Blepharitis doesn’t result in permanent vision damage and is not contagious.

What are the Symptoms of Blepharitis?

A few typical symptoms 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
• wearing contact lenses become unbearable
• abnormal eyelash growth or loss of eyelashes in severe cases

How To Treat Blepharitis?

By eliminating the root cause of blepharitis, the overall health of the eyelid will be significantly improved.

Treating blepharitis will allow you to produce more tears and enjoy life without the chronic and irritating symptoms associated with blepharitis.

The eyelids require a regular hygiene practice to prevent blepharitis and dry eye disease from recurring.

It is recommended that treatment be administered every month for at least 4 – 6 months in order to keep bacteria to a minimum and to prevent the biofilm from developing again.

Once the treatments are stopped, the biofilm will typically redevelop, leading to inflammation and damaged tear glands all over again.

How Soon Will I Notice a Difference?

Depending on the stage and severity of the condition, patients tend to feel a difference right after the treatment.

However, if you’ve experienced significant damage to your tear glands due to blepharitis, it may take several months before observing any changes in your condition.

Certain people may require multiple treatments before they begin to heal. Nightly hygiene and repeat treatments will treat, cure and prevent a recurrence.

Does Treatment Have any Side Effects?

There will only be positive effects following the treatment. You will have removed years, if not decades, of biofilm from your eyelids and will be able to comfortably blink without having your eyelids feel sticky.

Contact us to schedule your appointment at The Scott Eye Care Dry Eye Center and to consult with Ronald Weingart, OD, Vasana Lerdvoratavee, OD and Chula Lerdvoratavee, OD for a proper eyelid evaluation.

Our practice serves patients from Oswego, Naperville, Aurora, and Chicago, Illinois and surrounding communities.