 |
 |
John D. Hofbauer, MD
and Laura E. Fox, MD |
|
|
|
|
What is Blepharitis? Blepharitis is a stubborn and chronic inflammation of the eyelids. It can cause swelling, itching, irritation and redness. How does this happen? This occurs more frequently in people who have acne, dandruff, oily skin, or dry eyes. Crusts form at the base of the eyelashes, which can cause the eyelids to stick in the morning. Bacteria can infect these crusts, leading to infection and ulcers in the lids. This condition can start at any time, from childhood to late in life. How do you treat Blepharitis? 1) Soften the eye lids with warm wet compresses. 2) Clean the lids with a cloth or cotton ball soaked with diluted baby shampoo, or an over-the-counter lid scrub. Do this every morning, and if necessary again in the evening. 3) Use dandruff shampoo for your scalp if it is oily or has dandruff. 4) Keep hair, face, and hands as clean as possible. 5) Avoid eye make-up when the lids are inflammed. When the condition is controlled, start with new make-up because the old cosmetics may have become contaminated. 6) If these measures alone are not sufficient, additional medications with antibiotics or steroids may be necessary. These medications must be prescribed by the doctor, and follow-up exams are needed to make sure there are no side effects. Can Blepharitis be cured? This condition can be controlled, but not cured. The symptoms usually return when the treatment stops. Lid hygiene must become a lifetime routine to avoid recurrences.
Important! This information is to be used only after the diagnosis of blepharitis has been made by your doctor, and is not intended to take the place of a medical exam. Please call our office at (310) 273-2333 if you have any questions, or would like to make an appointment for an examination.
Laura E. Fox, MD
|
