Blepharitis Home A-Z Health Information Health Library A-Z Blepharitis Overview Blepharitis refers to the inflammation of the eyelids. This condition causes irritation and itchiness in the eyelids. Patients with blepharitis often exhibit greasy and crusted eyelids with scales sticking to the eyelashes. Blepharitis commonly occurs as a result of the clogging of the Meibomian glands (tiny oil glands near the base of the eyelashes). Some patients with blepharitis wake up with their eyelids stuck together, while others may experience dried tears and/or the feeling of something being stuck in their eyes. Although blepharitis is a chronic difficult-to-treat condition and can cause discomfort, it does not permanently damage eyesight and is not contagious. Causes The exact cause of blepharitis is unclear. However, one or more of the following factors are usually associated with this condition:Dry eyes.Seborrheic dermatitis (eyebrow and scalp dandruff).Other types of eye infections.Meibomian gland clogging or dysfunction.Rosacea (a skin condition characterised by facial redness).Allergies, including those to eye makeup, contact lens solutions, or eye medications.Lice or eyelash mites. Symptoms Typically, the symptoms of blepharitis are worse in the morning. Such symptoms include:Red and/or watery eyes.Red, itchy, and/or swollen eyelids.Sticky eyelids that often appear greasy.Crusted eyelashes.Flaking of the skin around the eyes.Burning, gritty, or stinging sensations (eye irritation).Frequent blinking.Heightened light sensitivity.Blurred vision (usually improves with blinking). Diagnosis Blepharitis is typically diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination performed by an ophthalmologist. The steps involved in diagnosing blepharitis include:Collection of medical history to assess the history of skin conditions (like rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis) or allergies.Physical examination of the eyelids, eyelashes, and tear film. This includes looking for signs of inflammation, crusting at the base of the eyelashes, or abnormal oil gland function in the eyelids.Slit-lamp (a specialised microscope) examination to magnify and light up the eyelid and eye surface for a detailed view of the eyelid margins, meibomian glands (which can become blocked), and the overall condition of the tear film.Tear sample or swab (if necessary) to rule out bacterial or fungal infections or to check for demodex mites (which cause blepharitis). Treatment In most cases, self-care measures, such as regular eye washes and the use of warm compresses, are adequate for treating blepharitis. If these measures do not help, certain medications may be prescribed:Infection-targeting medications: Antibiotics are useful in alleviating the symptoms and treating bacterial infections in the eyelids. These are available as eyedrops, creams, and ointments. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed if no response is observed with topical antibiotics.Anti-inflammatory medications: Steroid-based eyedrops or ointments are used for patients who do not respond to other treatments. These may be prescribed together with antibiotics.Immunomodulatory medications: Topical cyclosporine (Restasis) has been reported to ameliorate some symptoms of blepharitis.Medications for treating underlying conditions: In cases where blepharitis is caused by conditions, such as rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, or other diseases, treating the underlying disease may help alleviate the signs and symptoms of blepharitis.