Blepharitis
Understanding Blepharitis and Its Causes
This condition usually affects both eyes and can be uncomfortable to live with. It is often chronic, meaning it may come and go over time, but it does not typically cause permanent damage to your eyesight if treated properly.
There are two primary forms of blepharitis, and you can have one or both at the same time:
- Anterior Blepharitis: This affects the front of the eyelid where your eyelashes attach. It is often caused by bacteria on the skin or dandruff from your scalp.
- Posterior Blepharitis: This affects the inner edge of the eyelid that touches your eyeball. It occurs when the tiny oil glands (meibomian glands) in your eyelids get clogged.
Blepharitis is frequently caused by having too much bacteria on your eyelids. In many cases, it is linked to other skin or health issues. You may be more likely to develop it if you have:
- Dandruff on your scalp or eyebrows (seborrheic dermatitis)
- Rosacea, a skin condition that causes redness on the face
- Blocked oil glands in the eyelids (meibomian gland dysfunction)
- Tiny mites that live in eyelash follicles (Demodex)
- Allergic reactions to contact lens solution or eye makeup
- Dry eye disease
While anyone can get blepharitis, it becomes more common as we get older. It frequently affects adults over age 50. However, our team also treats children and younger adults who struggle with chronic eyelid inflammation.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Symptoms are often worse in the morning. You might wake up with your eyelids stuck together or notice crusty flakes on your lashes. Many patients describe a gritty feeling, like there is sand in their eyes.
As the day goes on, the inflammation can cause a variety of uncomfortable sensations. Common complaints we hear from patients include:
- Red, swollen, or itchy eyelids
- Watery eyes or excessive tearing
- A burning or stinging sensation
- Flaking or crusting at the base of the eyelashes
- Sensitivity to bright light
- Blurry vision that improves when you blink
- Frequent styes (painful bumps on the eyelid)
Most eyelid irritation is not an emergency, but certain signs require immediate care. Contact our Marlton office right away if you experience severe pain, sudden changes in your vision, or if the redness spreads to the rest of your face. These could be signs of a more serious infection.
How We Diagnose Blepharitis
Our ophthalmologists use advanced diagnostic technology to examine your eyes closely. During your visit, we will look at your eyelids, eyelashes, and skin texture using a special microscope called a slit lamp.
We check for blocked oil glands, signs of infection, and the presence of mites. We also evaluate the quality of your tears to see if dry eye disease is contributing to your discomfort.
Because blepharitis symptoms mimic other eye problems, an accurate diagnosis is essential. We verify that your symptoms are not caused by conjunctivitis (pink eye), severe allergies, or other infections. Getting the right diagnosis ensures you stop wasting time on treatments that do not work.
Treatment Options for Blepharitis
The most important part of treating blepharitis is keeping your eyelids clean. We will teach you a specific cleaning routine to remove the crusts and bacteria that cause inflammation. This typically involves applying warm compresses to loosen debris and using a gentle cleanser to scrub the eyelid margins.
If cleaning your eyelids at home is not enough, our doctors may prescribe medication to fight infection and reduce swelling. These options include:
- Antibiotic ointments applied directly to the eyelid
- Antibiotic eye drops
- Steroid eye drops to control severe inflammation (used only short-term)
- Oral antibiotics for stubborn cases or ocular rosacea
- Prescription drops specifically designed to treat Demodex mites
- Immunomodulator drops to help produce more natural tears
For patients with blocked oil glands, home care may not clear the obstruction. Our Marlton clinic offers advanced in-office procedures to heat and clear these glands. Thermal pulsation and deep cleaning treatments can restore the flow of healthy oils to your tears, providing significant relief from dryness and irritation.
Home Care and Maintenance
Treating blepharitis is a daily commitment, much like brushing your teeth. Consistency is the key to preventing flare-ups.
- Warm Compresses: Place a clean, warm washcloth or a heated eye mask over your closed eyes for 5 to 10 minutes. This melts the thick oil in your glands.
- Eyelid Massage: Gently massage your eyelids near the lash line to push the oil out of the glands.
- Lid Scrub: Use a prescribed eyelid cleanser or a hypochlorous acid spray. Avoid using baby shampoo, as it can sometimes dry out the eye's natural oils.
To keep your eyes healthy, try to minimize irritation. Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this spreads bacteria. If you wear eye makeup, remove it completely every night and replace your products regularly to prevent contamination. During an active flare-up, it is best to stop wearing contact lenses until your eyes feel better.
Frequently Asked Questions
Blepharitis is a chronic condition, meaning it rarely goes away forever. However, it can be managed very effectively. With the right daily routine and medical support, most patients can keep their eyes comfortable and symptom-free.
Styes are often a complication of blepharitis. When the oil glands along your eyelid become blocked and infected, a painful bump forms. Treating the underlying blepharitis helps prevent styes from returning.
No, blepharitis itself is not contagious. You cannot catch it from someone else, and you cannot pass it to others. However, the bacteria associated with it can spread, so it is always good practice not to share towels or eye makeup.
Yes. Daily hygiene is the most effective way to control symptoms. Skipping your routine allows bacteria and oils to build up again, which often leads to a return of redness and itching.
Expert Eyelid Care in South Jersey
You do not have to live with the discomfort of gritty, red eyes. At ReFocus Eye Health Marlton, we serve patients from Marlton, Voorhees, Evesham, and the entire Greater Philadelphia Metropolitan Area with compassionate, expert care. Our multispecialty team uses the latest technology to diagnose the root cause of your blepharitis and create a plan that fits your lifestyle.
Dr. Grossman is brilliant and compassionate, I’ve been a patient for more than 30 years, and have sent him numerous family members who are also enamored of him. His staff are outstanding as well.
Claire Zelman
Great experience in an out friendly service. Dr. Andrew is great!
Ryan McCarthy
I came in for an emergency appointment, and they accommodated me and handled my care with compassion and professionalism. Doctors are always prepared, and aware of my medical conditions and concerns.
Cathy Quattrone
I met Dr. Andrews for the first time and thought he was an expert in his field. I felt confident in his abilities and prescription he gave me.
Marcia Hinden
Dr. Heuer was very professional and easy to talk to. I enjoyed being in what appeared to be an all female office. I highly recommend allowing them to take care of your eye care needs.
Lasaunji Richardson
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Wednesday: 8am-7pm
Thursday: 8am-7pm
Friday: 8am-5pm
Saturday: 9am-2pm
Sunday: Closed