Blepharitis (Inflammation of the eyelid)
Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid. This inflammation can occur at both younger and older age and is a condition that can occur regularly.
Blepharitis is relatively common and affects 20-40% of the population. Some of these people have complaints. Symptoms may include itching, irritation, a “grain of sand-sensation and burning, tired, teary or dry eyes, mild shivers, trouble with reading, discharge, redness of the eyes, heavy eyelids, a lot of blinking or changed field of vision. Depending on the type of blepharitis, people complain of scabs and/or flakes on the eyelids.
The eye has an upper and lower eyelid: the eyelid margin holds sebaceous glands (also called Meibomian glands) and eyelashes. The sebum from the sebaceous glands makes an important contribution to keeping the eye moist.
Treatment of blepharitis
- Warm compresses
- Eyelid massage
- Eyelid hygiene
- Eye gel or ointment
- Artificial tears and/or anti-inflammatory drops
- Antibiotics
Any questions? Please contact OMC Amstelland.
Source: NOG patient information – www.oogheelkunde.org
