Blepharitis: Treatment, Causes & Symptoms

Overview

What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a common eyelid inflammation with a complex set of causes. It is also commonly called lid margin disease because it affects only the edges of your eyelids. It can happen either when certain skin conditions cause irritation or when bacteria results in infection, or a combination.

As a result, your eyelids may become red, swollen and scaly. Blepharitis usually affects both eyes. In some cases it can only affect one eye, but this is uncommon. Once blepharitis occurs, it’s possible to also get a secondary infection. Though uncomfortable, most cases aren’t contagious and won’t cause blindness.

How common is blepharitis?

Most forms of blepharitis affect adults and children of both genders equally. However, certain forms, such as staphylococcal blepharitis, affect mainly women (80% of cases). A recent survey of ophthalmologists and optometrists reported that nearly half of the patients they see showed symptoms of blepharitis. So it’s good to know that it’s very common and the symptoms are very manageable.

Are there different types of blepharitis?

Blepharitis is defined by its location on your lids.

Two types exist:

Anterior blepharitis: occurs when the eyelid’s front exterior, where eyelashes emerge, is red and swollen.

Posterior blepharitis: perhaps the more common type, happens when the oil (meibomian) glands in the moist underside of the eyelid produce oil erratically.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of blepharitis?

Blepharitis may make your eyelids feel itchy and look red, swollen and scaly. As the scales become courser, the eyelid surface becomes irritated and forms crusts, which may cause your lids to stick together. You may wake up in the morning with a crust on your eyelashes and eyelid edges that’s heavier than the “sleep” you’re used to seeing. Instead of a normal clear or white, the eye discharge may be more yellow or green in color. If the crust falls into your eye, you may feel like you have “something in your eye,” or your eye may feel gritty.

Other symptoms may include:

• Burning sensation in eyelid area.
• Excessive blinking.
• Blurred vision.
• Crusting of eyelashes and eyelid corners.
• Dry eye.
• Eyelids stuck together.
• Excessive tearing.
• Flakes of skin around eyes and eyelids.
• Greasy eyelids.
• Itching.
• Photophobia (light sensitivity).
• Red, swollen eyelids.
• Red, irritated eyes.

What causes blepharitis?

The causes of blepharitis are not well known and there is rarely a single cause. Bacteria or conditions that cause inflammation are believed to among the culprits.

These include:

Anterior Blepharitis

• Acne rosacea. Rosacea causes facial skin inflammation, including eyelids.
• Allergies. Allergies to contact lens solution, eye drops or makeup can spur irritation.
• Dandruff (Seborrheic dermatitis). Dandruff flaking can irritate eyelids and cause inflammation.
• Dry eye. Dry tear ducts can alter bacterial resistance, resulting in infection.
• Lice or mites in eyelashes (Demodicosis). Eyelash follicles and glands become blocked with demodex mites or lice. One study found 30% of chronic blepharitis patients had demodex mites.

Posterior Blepharitis

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). Openings of oil-producing glands in your eyelids become plugged, causing dry eye, which can result in inflammation and infection. This common type may be the least preventable. Posterior blepharitis may also be triggered by skin conditions, such as rosacea or dandruff.

Diagnosis and Tests

How is blepharitis diagnosed?

Because blepharitis can be caused by so many conditions, it’s difficult to diagnose. There is no one test for this ailment. Here are a few steps your eye care provider may take to diagnose which disease type(s) is present.

1. Health history. The provider will ask about symptoms and other health conditions to determine your risk factors.
2. External eyelid exam. The appearance of the eyelids and intensity of reddening, discharge and swelling will help determine the type and severity.
3. Discharge cultures. A swab of eyelid secretion sent to a lab can determine contents, including what type of bacteria is present and in what quantity.
4. Tear test. A sample of tears can determine if dry eye is a contributing factor.
5. Eyelash exam. Evaluating eyelashes under a microscope can detect mites.
6. Eyelid biopsy. Rarely, extreme swelling may require biopsy to rule out skin cancer or other abnormal cells. The biopsy type is determined by the location of the area being tested. Your eye care provider will numb the lid with local anesthetic. Then a needle biopsy is used to take a sample of cells to be examined under the microscope. You may experience some bruising, but there is usually little or no scarring.

Management and Treatment

Can I treat my blepharitis at home?

For some types of blepharitis, self-care at home may help soothe the symptoms. If you believe you have blepharitis, try these tips:

• Avoid eye makeup. To lessen irritation, you may want to avoid eye makeup until the infection is under control.
• Use warm compresses. Take a clean wash cloth and wet it with very warm water. Wring out excess water and place it over your eyelids and repeat as necessary to keep the cloth temperature constant. Eventually, the crusts will dampen and oily debris will be easier to wipe away.
• Clean the eyelids. While this may lead to more laundry to do, use a new clean cloth to wash each eyelid. This will help lessen any bacteria spread from one eye to the other.

1. Mix a solution of 50% baby shampoo and 50% water.
2. Place the warm, wet washcloth over your index finger and apply the soapy solution.
3. Close the eye you are cleansing and rub the washcloth over the lashes and lid margins several times using horizontal strokes.
4. Rinse thoroughly with a clean, warm wet washcloth.
5. Repeat for other eye.

If several days of carefully cleaning your eyelids doesn’t curb the crusting, it’s time to see your eye care provider.

How will an eye care provider treat my blepharitis?

Your blepharitis treatment will depend upon the type you have. After examining your eyelid swelling and running tests, your provider may prescribe treatments, including:

• Antibiotics. Applying a prescription antibiotic ointment, such as bacitracin ophthalmic (Polysporin®), on your eyelid or using prescription antibiotic eye drops, such as combination polymyxin B and trimethoprim (Polytrim®) may help resolve the bacterial infection and lessen irritation. Sometimes an oral antibiotic is prescribed for more persistent cases.
• Anti-Inflammatories. A steroid eye drop or cream can be added to your treatment plan if your provider thinks you need a stronger medicine. Steroids are prescribed to reduce inflammation. Sometimes both antibiotics and anti-inflammatories are prescribed to treat underlying conditions or secondary infections.
• Immunomodulators. Adding an immunomodulatory drug, such as Cyclosporine Ophthalmic (Restasis®) in cases of posterior blepharitis, has been shown to reduce inflammation. These drugs block the body’s natural immune response and therefore reduce inflammation.
• Root cause treatment. It’s important to treat root causes that trigger blepharitis, in addition to soothing symptoms. Skin conditions — such as dandruff — or eye ailments — such as dry eye — can lead to blepharitis recurring more often. In these cases, a dandruff shampoo or eye drops for dry eyes may help.

What complications can result from blepharitis?

Blepharitis cannot be cured; however it can be treated and controlled through proper eyelid hygiene. Left untreated, blepharitis may lead to other more serious eye conditions, including corneal problems, which may be significant.

Complications include:

• Chalazion. A chalazion is a small, painless eyelid swelling.
• Corneal ulcer (keratitus). A sore on the cornea can result from prolonged infection or eyelid swelling.
• Eyelash issues. Eyelashes may shed, grow in odd directions, or lighten as a result of chronic blepharitis.
• Pink eye. Some types of blepharitis may turn into chronic pink eye.
• Sty (stye). A sty (stye) is a red, painful eyelid bump near the eyelashes.
• Tear film issues. Tears exist in a delicate balance of mucous, oil and water to keep eyes moist and protected. If skin or oily debris accumulate and cause irritation, dry eyes or excessive tearing can result.

Prevention

How do I prevent blepharitis?

Most blepharitis cases are not preventable. Some risk factors for blepharitis, such as certain skin conditions, are beyond your control. But to minimize blepharitis’s symptoms, here are everyday steps you can take:

• Keep hands and face clean.
• Resist the urge to touch itchy eyes/face. Use a clean tissue if you must.
• Remove all eye makeup before bedtime.
• Wipe away excess tears or eye drops with a clean tissue.
• Wear glasses instead of contact lenses until the condition clears.

Replace eye makeup, whether its eyeliner, eye shadow or mascara, as bacteria may be lurking within the old container and you want to avoid reinfection.

A note from Cleveland Clinic:

Blepharitis and its symptoms of swollen, red eyelids are never fun. But in most cases it’s a condition you can manage relatively comfortably. With a good eyelid hygiene routine, you’ll likely have fewer flare-ups.

Blepharitis: Treatment, Causes & Symptoms

Overview

What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a common eyelid inflammation with a complex set of causes. It is also commonly called lid margin disease because it affects only the edges of your eyelids. It can happen either when certain skin conditions cause irritation or when bacteria results in infection, or a combination.

As a result, your eyelids may become red, swollen and scaly. Blepharitis usually affects both eyes. In some cases it can only affect one eye, but this is uncommon. Once blepharitis occurs, it’s possible to also get a secondary infection. Though uncomfortable, most cases aren’t contagious and won’t cause blindness.

How common is blepharitis?

Most forms of blepharitis affect adults and children of both genders equally. However, certain forms, such as staphylococcal blepharitis, affect mainly women (80% of cases). A recent survey of ophthalmologists and optometrists reported that nearly half of the patients they see showed symptoms of blepharitis. So it’s good to know that it’s very common and the symptoms are very manageable.

Are there different types of blepharitis?

Blepharitis is defined by its location on your lids.

Two types exist:

Anterior blepharitis: occurs when the eyelid’s front exterior, where eyelashes emerge, is red and swollen.

Posterior blepharitis: perhaps the more common type, happens when the oil (meibomian) glands in the moist underside of the eyelid produce oil erratically.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of blepharitis?

Blepharitis may make your eyelids feel itchy and look red, swollen and scaly. As the scales become courser, the eyelid surface becomes irritated and forms crusts, which may cause your lids to stick together. You may wake up in the morning with a crust on your eyelashes and eyelid edges that’s heavier than the “sleep” you’re used to seeing. Instead of a normal clear or white, the eye discharge may be more yellow or green in color. If the crust falls into your eye, you may feel like you have “something in your eye,” or your eye may feel gritty.

Other symptoms may include:

• Burning sensation in eyelid area.
• Excessive blinking.
• Blurred vision.
• Crusting of eyelashes and eyelid corners.
• Dry eye.
• Eyelids stuck together.
• Excessive tearing.
• Flakes of skin around eyes and eyelids.
• Greasy eyelids.
• Itching.
• Photophobia (light sensitivity).
• Red, swollen eyelids.
• Red, irritated eyes.

What causes blepharitis?

The causes of blepharitis are not well known and there is rarely a single cause. Bacteria or conditions that cause inflammation are believed to among the culprits.

These include:

Anterior Blepharitis

• Acne rosacea. Rosacea causes facial skin inflammation, including eyelids.
• Allergies. Allergies to contact lens solution, eye drops or makeup can spur irritation.
• Dandruff (Seborrheic dermatitis). Dandruff flaking can irritate eyelids and cause inflammation.
• Dry eye. Dry tear ducts can alter bacterial resistance, resulting in infection.
• Lice or mites in eyelashes (Demodicosis). Eyelash follicles and glands become blocked with demodex mites or lice. One study found 30% of chronic blepharitis patients had demodex mites.

Posterior Blepharitis

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). Openings of oil-producing glands in your eyelids become plugged, causing dry eye, which can result in inflammation and infection. This common type may be the least preventable. Posterior blepharitis may also be triggered by skin conditions, such as rosacea or dandruff.

Diagnosis and Tests

How is blepharitis diagnosed?

Because blepharitis can be caused by so many conditions, it’s difficult to diagnose. There is no one test for this ailment. Here are a few steps your eye care provider may take to diagnose which disease type(s) is present.

1. Health history. The provider will ask about symptoms and other health conditions to determine your risk factors.
2. External eyelid exam. The appearance of the eyelids and intensity of reddening, discharge and swelling will help determine the type and severity.
3. Discharge cultures. A swab of eyelid secretion sent to a lab can determine contents, including what type of bacteria is present and in what quantity.
4. Tear test. A sample of tears can determine if dry eye is a contributing factor.
5. Eyelash exam. Evaluating eyelashes under a microscope can detect mites.
6. Eyelid biopsy. Rarely, extreme swelling may require biopsy to rule out skin cancer or other abnormal cells. The biopsy type is determined by the location of the area being tested. Your eye care provider will numb the lid with local anesthetic. Then a needle biopsy is used to take a sample of cells to be examined under the microscope. You may experience some bruising, but there is usually little or no scarring.

Management and Treatment

Can I treat my blepharitis at home?

For some types of blepharitis, self-care at home may help soothe the symptoms. If you believe you have blepharitis, try these tips:

• Avoid eye makeup. To lessen irritation, you may want to avoid eye makeup until the infection is under control.
• Use warm compresses. Take a clean wash cloth and wet it with very warm water. Wring out excess water and place it over your eyelids and repeat as necessary to keep the cloth temperature constant. Eventually, the crusts will dampen and oily debris will be easier to wipe away.
• Clean the eyelids. While this may lead to more laundry to do, use a new clean cloth to wash each eyelid. This will help lessen any bacteria spread from one eye to the other.

1. Mix a solution of 50% baby shampoo and 50% water.
2. Place the warm, wet washcloth over your index finger and apply the soapy solution.
3. Close the eye you are cleansing and rub the washcloth over the lashes and lid margins several times using horizontal strokes.
4. Rinse thoroughly with a clean, warm wet washcloth.
5. Repeat for other eye.

If several days of carefully cleaning your eyelids doesn’t curb the crusting, it’s time to see your eye care provider.

How will an eye care provider treat my blepharitis?

Your blepharitis treatment will depend upon the type you have. After examining your eyelid swelling and running tests, your provider may prescribe treatments, including:

• Antibiotics. Applying a prescription antibiotic ointment, such as bacitracin ophthalmic (Polysporin®), on your eyelid or using prescription antibiotic eye drops, such as combination polymyxin B and trimethoprim (Polytrim®) may help resolve the bacterial infection and lessen irritation. Sometimes an oral antibiotic is prescribed for more persistent cases.
• Anti-Inflammatories. A steroid eye drop or cream can be added to your treatment plan if your provider thinks you need a stronger medicine. Steroids are prescribed to reduce inflammation. Sometimes both antibiotics and anti-inflammatories are prescribed to treat underlying conditions or secondary infections.
• Immunomodulators. Adding an immunomodulatory drug, such as Cyclosporine Ophthalmic (Restasis®) in cases of posterior blepharitis, has been shown to reduce inflammation. These drugs block the body’s natural immune response and therefore reduce inflammation.
• Root cause treatment. It’s important to treat root causes that trigger blepharitis, in addition to soothing symptoms. Skin conditions — such as dandruff — or eye ailments — such as dry eye — can lead to blepharitis recurring more often. In these cases, a dandruff shampoo or eye drops for dry eyes may help.

What complications can result from blepharitis?

Blepharitis cannot be cured; however it can be treated and controlled through proper eyelid hygiene. Left untreated, blepharitis may lead to other more serious eye conditions, including corneal problems, which may be significant.

Complications include:

• Chalazion. A chalazion is a small, painless eyelid swelling.
• Corneal ulcer (keratitus). A sore on the cornea can result from prolonged infection or eyelid swelling.
• Eyelash issues. Eyelashes may shed, grow in odd directions, or lighten as a result of chronic blepharitis.
• Pink eye. Some types of blepharitis may turn into chronic pink eye.
• Sty (stye). A sty (stye) is a red, painful eyelid bump near the eyelashes.
• Tear film issues. Tears exist in a delicate balance of mucous, oil and water to keep eyes moist and protected. If skin or oily debris accumulate and cause irritation, dry eyes or excessive tearing can result.

Prevention

How do I prevent blepharitis?

Most blepharitis cases are not preventable. Some risk factors for blepharitis, such as certain skin conditions, are beyond your control. But to minimize blepharitis’s symptoms, here are everyday steps you can take:

• Keep hands and face clean.
• Resist the urge to touch itchy eyes/face. Use a clean tissue if you must.
• Remove all eye makeup before bedtime.
• Wipe away excess tears or eye drops with a clean tissue.
• Wear glasses instead of contact lenses until the condition clears.

Replace eye makeup, whether its eyeliner, eye shadow or mascara, as bacteria may be lurking within the old container and you want to avoid reinfection.

A note from Cleveland Clinic:

Blepharitis and its symptoms of swollen, red eyelids are never fun. But in most cases it’s a condition you can manage relatively comfortably. With a good eyelid hygiene routine, you’ll likely have fewer flare-ups.

Blepharitis: Treatment, Causes & Symptoms

Overview

What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a common eyelid inflammation with a complex set of causes. It is also commonly called lid margin disease because it affects only the edges of your eyelids. It can happen either when certain skin conditions cause irritation or when bacteria results in infection, or a combination.

As a result, your eyelids may become red, swollen and scaly. Blepharitis usually affects both eyes. In some cases it can only affect one eye, but this is uncommon. Once blepharitis occurs, it’s possible to also get a secondary infection. Though uncomfortable, most cases aren’t contagious and won’t cause blindness.

How common is blepharitis?

Most forms of blepharitis affect adults and children of both genders equally. However, certain forms, such as staphylococcal blepharitis, affect mainly women (80% of cases). A recent survey of ophthalmologists and optometrists reported that nearly half of the patients they see showed symptoms of blepharitis. So it’s good to know that it’s very common and the symptoms are very manageable.

Are there different types of blepharitis?

Blepharitis is defined by its location on your lids.

Two types exist:

Anterior blepharitis: occurs when the eyelid’s front exterior, where eyelashes emerge, is red and swollen.

Posterior blepharitis: perhaps the more common type, happens when the oil (meibomian) glands in the moist underside of the eyelid produce oil erratically.

Symptoms and Causes

What are the symptoms of blepharitis?

Blepharitis may make your eyelids feel itchy and look red, swollen and scaly. As the scales become courser, the eyelid surface becomes irritated and forms crusts, which may cause your lids to stick together. You may wake up in the morning with a crust on your eyelashes and eyelid edges that’s heavier than the “sleep” you’re used to seeing. Instead of a normal clear or white, the eye discharge may be more yellow or green in color. If the crust falls into your eye, you may feel like you have “something in your eye,” or your eye may feel gritty.

Other symptoms may include:

• Burning sensation in eyelid area.
• Excessive blinking.
• Blurred vision.
• Crusting of eyelashes and eyelid corners.
• Dry eye.
• Eyelids stuck together.
• Excessive tearing.
• Flakes of skin around eyes and eyelids.
• Greasy eyelids.
• Itching.
• Photophobia (light sensitivity).
• Red, swollen eyelids.
• Red, irritated eyes.

What causes blepharitis?

The causes of blepharitis are not well known and there is rarely a single cause. Bacteria or conditions that cause inflammation are believed to among the culprits.

These include:

Anterior Blepharitis

• Acne rosacea. Rosacea causes facial skin inflammation, including eyelids.
• Allergies. Allergies to contact lens solution, eye drops or makeup can spur irritation.
• Dandruff (Seborrheic dermatitis). Dandruff flaking can irritate eyelids and cause inflammation.
• Dry eye. Dry tear ducts can alter bacterial resistance, resulting in infection.
• Lice or mites in eyelashes (Demodicosis). Eyelash follicles and glands become blocked with demodex mites or lice. One study found 30% of chronic blepharitis patients had demodex mites.

Posterior Blepharitis

• Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD). Openings of oil-producing glands in your eyelids become plugged, causing dry eye, which can result in inflammation and infection. This common type may be the least preventable. Posterior blepharitis may also be triggered by skin conditions, such as rosacea or dandruff.

Diagnosis and Tests

How is blepharitis diagnosed?

Because blepharitis can be caused by so many conditions, it’s difficult to diagnose. There is no one test for this ailment. Here are a few steps your eye care provider may take to diagnose which disease type(s) is present.

1. Health history. The provider will ask about symptoms and other health conditions to determine your risk factors.
2. External eyelid exam. The appearance of the eyelids and intensity of reddening, discharge and swelling will help determine the type and severity.
3. Discharge cultures. A swab of eyelid secretion sent to a lab can determine contents, including what type of bacteria is present and in what quantity.
4. Tear test. A sample of tears can determine if dry eye is a contributing factor.
5. Eyelash exam. Evaluating eyelashes under a microscope can detect mites.
6. Eyelid biopsy. Rarely, extreme swelling may require biopsy to rule out skin cancer or other abnormal cells. The biopsy type is determined by the location of the area being tested. Your eye care provider will numb the lid with local anesthetic. Then a needle biopsy is used to take a sample of cells to be examined under the microscope. You may experience some bruising, but there is usually little or no scarring.

Management and Treatment

Can I treat my blepharitis at home?

For some types of blepharitis, self-care at home may help soothe the symptoms. If you believe you have blepharitis, try these tips:

• Avoid eye makeup. To lessen irritation, you may want to avoid eye makeup until the infection is under control.
• Use warm compresses. Take a clean wash cloth and wet it with very warm water. Wring out excess water and place it over your eyelids and repeat as necessary to keep the cloth temperature constant. Eventually, the crusts will dampen and oily debris will be easier to wipe away.
• Clean the eyelids. While this may lead to more laundry to do, use a new clean cloth to wash each eyelid. This will help lessen any bacteria spread from one eye to the other.

1. Mix a solution of 50% baby shampoo and 50% water.
2. Place the warm, wet washcloth over your index finger and apply the soapy solution.
3. Close the eye you are cleansing and rub the washcloth over the lashes and lid margins several times using horizontal strokes.
4. Rinse thoroughly with a clean, warm wet washcloth.
5. Repeat for other eye.

If several days of carefully cleaning your eyelids doesn’t curb the crusting, it’s time to see your eye care provider.

How will an eye care provider treat my blepharitis?

Your blepharitis treatment will depend upon the type you have. After examining your eyelid swelling and running tests, your provider may prescribe treatments, including:

• Antibiotics. Applying a prescription antibiotic ointment, such as bacitracin ophthalmic (Polysporin®), on your eyelid or using prescription antibiotic eye drops, such as combination polymyxin B and trimethoprim (Polytrim®) may help resolve the bacterial infection and lessen irritation. Sometimes an oral antibiotic is prescribed for more persistent cases.
• Anti-Inflammatories. A steroid eye drop or cream can be added to your treatment plan if your provider thinks you need a stronger medicine. Steroids are prescribed to reduce inflammation. Sometimes both antibiotics and anti-inflammatories are prescribed to treat underlying conditions or secondary infections.
• Immunomodulators. Adding an immunomodulatory drug, such as Cyclosporine Ophthalmic (Restasis®) in cases of posterior blepharitis, has been shown to reduce inflammation. These drugs block the body’s natural immune response and therefore reduce inflammation.
• Root cause treatment. It’s important to treat root causes that trigger blepharitis, in addition to soothing symptoms. Skin conditions — such as dandruff — or eye ailments — such as dry eye — can lead to blepharitis recurring more often. In these cases, a dandruff shampoo or eye drops for dry eyes may help.

What complications can result from blepharitis?

Blepharitis cannot be cured; however it can be treated and controlled through proper eyelid hygiene. Left untreated, blepharitis may lead to other more serious eye conditions, including corneal problems, which may be significant.

Complications include:

• Chalazion. A chalazion is a small, painless eyelid swelling.
• Corneal ulcer (keratitus). A sore on the cornea can result from prolonged infection or eyelid swelling.
• Eyelash issues. Eyelashes may shed, grow in odd directions, or lighten as a result of chronic blepharitis.
• Pink eye. Some types of blepharitis may turn into chronic pink eye.
• Sty (stye). A sty (stye) is a red, painful eyelid bump near the eyelashes.
• Tear film issues. Tears exist in a delicate balance of mucous, oil and water to keep eyes moist and protected. If skin or oily debris accumulate and cause irritation, dry eyes or excessive tearing can result.

Prevention

How do I prevent blepharitis?

Most blepharitis cases are not preventable. Some risk factors for blepharitis, such as certain skin conditions, are beyond your control. But to minimize blepharitis’s symptoms, here are everyday steps you can take:

• Keep hands and face clean.
• Resist the urge to touch itchy eyes/face. Use a clean tissue if you must.
• Remove all eye makeup before bedtime.
• Wipe away excess tears or eye drops with a clean tissue.
• Wear glasses instead of contact lenses until the condition clears.

Replace eye makeup, whether its eyeliner, eye shadow or mascara, as bacteria may be lurking within the old container and you want to avoid reinfection.

A note from Cleveland Clinic:

Blepharitis and its symptoms of swollen, red eyelids are never fun. But in most cases it’s a condition you can manage relatively comfortably. With a good eyelid hygiene routine, you’ll likely have fewer flare-ups.

10 Blepharitis Symptoms to Know: Signs of This Bizarre Condition

Dry eye, a common complication of blepharitis, can also be a factor, Dr. Morrison says. If you have dry eye, it means your eyes can’t produce enough tears or produce tears of low quality that can’t keep your eyes moisturized and healthy. Blepharitis can cause this by blocking those Meibomian glands, so your tear film doesn’t have enough oil. Cue a slew of aggravating symptoms like dryness, itchiness, redness, pain, and sensitivity to light. Counterintuitively enough, dry eye can also cause excessive tearing as your eyes work to quench their thirst.

4. Your eyes sting and burn so much you want to dunk them in an icy bath.

Blepharitis can make your eyes feel all-around terrible. Much like the one of the potential reasons behind watery eyes, all that blepharitis-induced debris can get into your eyes and cause burning or stinging in response to the intrusion, Dr. Morrison says.

5. Your eyes and/or eyelids are constantly red.

Blepharitis doesn’t just mess with how your eyes feel—it can affect their coloring, too. Your eyelids can get red as part of all that inflammation, and your actual eyes can take on a red hue if the blood vessels in your conjunctiva (the mucous membrane on the front of your eyes and the insides of your eyelids) widen due to irritation. This can happen because of blepharitis complications like dry eye or because little skin flakes get into your eyes.

6. You have itchy, swollen eyelids.

It’s easy to think that puffy, itchy eyes are a sign of allergies. But allergies often cause itching in your actual eyeballs whereas blepharitis can make you want to rub your inflamed, itchy eyelids right off your face.

7. Your eyelids are basically an oil slick.

Blame your Meibomian glands. When these little guys become inflamed, they can produce more natural oils than usual, making your eyelids look like they’re covered in grease, Dr. Morrison says. Not everyone with blepharitis will get this symptom, but if you have oily skin to begin with, your odds may be higher, Dr. Massaro-Giordano says.

8. You’re dealing with extreme sensitivity to light.

Blepharitis can leave you groping for your sunglasses when you normally would be able to handle the light just fine. Usually this happens if you have dry eye along with your blepharitis. Dry eye affects your corneas, which are the clear, dome-shaped outer layers of your eyes, Dr. Morrison says. When your natural tears can’t nourish your corneas properly, your corneas can become irritated, causing light sensitivity.

9. You’re blinking a lot more than normal.

Chalk this up to general irritation that comes with blepharitis. If something gets in your eye like eyelid skin flakes or eye crust, blinking is a natural reflex to try to get rid of that debris, Dr. Massaro-Giordano says. Your eyes also probably feel dry and gritty, and blinking is your eyes’ normal mechanism to spread moisture across your eyeballs and make it all better, Dr. Morrison says.

10. Your eyelashes are being wonky by growing in a weird way or just falling out altogether.

This is why it’s so important to get blepharitis taken care of if you have it: Blepharitis can cause your eyelashes to fall out or be “misdirected,” i.e., grow at weird angles when they come back in, Dr. Morrison says. This is because your eyelashes are close to your Meibomian glands, and if those are always inflamed, your eyelashes might fall out as a result, Dr. Massaro-Giordano says. Then, when they grow back, they may not be able to come in straight because of scarring or inflammation. (For the record, Dr. Massaro-Giordano says this is a less common blepharitis symptom than the others on this list, thankfully.)

The first step in treating blepharitis involves using warm compresses to clean your eyes and eyelids. Beyond that, see your doctor for guidance.

To deal with symptoms like crusted-over eyes and eyelid flaking, grab a warm, damp washcloth, hold it over your eyelids for a few minutes to loosen up the crusties, and then gently wipe them away, Dr. Massaro-Giordano says. The Mayo Clinic recommends doing this two to four times a day when your blepharitis is acting up, then at least once a day even when it seems to be control. They also suggest following that up by washing each eye with a damp, warm washcloth and a few drops of diluted baby shampoo. (Use a different cloth for each eye, and make sure they’re clean before you do.)

You’ll need to see a doctor for more intensive blepharitis treatment, which can involve infection- and inflammation-fighting drugs or treatment for an underlying condition that’s causing your eyelid problems. They may also decide you need to wash your eyelids in a more specific way based on your particular blepharitis case. Talking to a doctor is really the best way of forcing your blepharitis to see its way out.

Related:

Symptoms, Causes, Treatment, and Prevention

What Is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is inflammation of the oil glands in your eyelids. It’s the most common cause of dry eyes.

Blepharitis Symptoms

The condition makes your eyelids red, itchy, and a little swollen. The bases of your eyelashes may look scaly. You might also notice:

• Feeling like something is in your eye
• A burning feeling in your eye
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurry vision
• Dry eyes
• Red eyes
• Watery eyes
• Crusty eyelashes when you wake up in the morning

Blepharitis Causes

Things that cause blepharitis include:

Blepharitis Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms. They might also:

• Look closely at your eyelids, your eyelashes, and the texture of your skin
• Use a magnifying device to look at the edges of your eyelids and the openings of the glands there
• Check that your eyes are making enough tears
• Take a sample of material from your eyelids to check for bacteria

Blepharitis Treatment

There’s no cure for blepharitis. But you might be able to manage and treat it by taking care of your eyelids.

Warm compresses can help soften crust and loosen oily debris. Follow these steps:

• Wet a clean washcloth in warm (not hot) water.
• Wring it out and place it over your closed eyelids for 5 minutes.
• Wet it again as necessary to keep it warm.

Keeping your eyelids clean may also ease symptoms:

• Make a solution that’s half baby shampoo and half water. Put a clean cloth over your index finger and dip it into the mix.
• Close one eye. Gently rub the washcloth over your eyelashes and the edge of your lids for about 30 seconds to loosen clogged oil. Apply light pressure along your eyelashes to squeeze out clogged oils from the glands behind your lashes.
• Rinse thoroughly with a clean, warm, wet washcloth. Pat dry. Then do the other eye.

Depending on the cause of your blepharitis, your doctor might recommend:

Researchers are still studying other treatments involving pulsed light or heat.

Blepharitis Complications

The inflammation of blepharitis can lead to complications such as:

• Loss of eyelashes
• Excess tears
• Dry eyes, possibly raising your chances of a cornea infection
• Clogged glands that might get infected (stye) or form a lump (chalazion)
• Scarring on your eyelids
• Cornea inflammation

Blepharitis Prevention

A few lifestyle changes might help keep blepharitis away.

• Keep your eyelids clean.
• Remove all eye makeup before bed.
• Don’t use eyeliner on the back edges of your eyelids, behind the lashes.
• If you’re in the early stages of treating blepharitis, prevent further irritation by not using makeup.
• Once you start to use it again, replace products that you use in or near your eyelids. They may be contaminated.

Blepharitis

Clinical Signs

Clinical signs of blepharitis
The eyelids are usually quite swollen and thickened. Most have a purulent discharge, which often looks like the discharge associated with dry eye.

Wipe all the discharge away and do a Schirmer Tear Test. The STT is usually increased above normal. The conjunctiva is hyperaemic. Most affected dogs rub at their eyelids.

Less commonly, you may see blepharospasm and corneal ulceration.

Causes

Causes of blepharitis
There are numerous causes of blepharitis. Often we do not find an underlying cause, so we assume that these are caused by allergies.

1. Allergies – atopy or specifically to drugs, soaps, shampoo or food.
2. Bacterial – puppy impetigo or a hypersensitivity to normal bacteria in the skin
3.Solar irritation (solar blepharitis)
4. Insect bites
5. Chemical burns
6.Parasite infections or fungal infection
7. Immune-mediated diseases
8. Nutritional imbalances, i.e. zinc deficiency
9. Endocrine abnormality, i.e. hypothyroidism
10. Secondary to infection associated with eyelid cancer

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of blepharitis
A thorough history and physical examination are essential in trying to work out if there is an underlying cause. Careful examination of the eyelid margins and meibomian gland openings is important. Many cases are caused by blockage of the meibomian gland openings. This usually develops from an allergic reaction or from infection. Swollen and/or impacted meibomian glands might suggest a bacterial infection of the glands. Always perform a Schirmer tear test. The Mucopurulent discharge seen with blepharitis looks exactly like the discharge that you might see with dry eye. Look behind the third eyelid for foreign bodies, as again these may cause a mucopurulent discharge. Check for corneal ulceration.

Treatment

Treatment of Blepharitis
Treatment depends upon the underlying cause. In most cases we do not find an underlying cause. If blepharitis is a result of other ongoing health conditions, these should be concurrently addressed. Warm compresses (hand towels soaked in plain warm water) will aid in removing the discharge from around the meibomian gland openings. This may also reduce the risk of recurrence. The warm Compresses also help to move meibum—the glandular secretions. The hair around the eye can be clipped short to reduce the buildup of discharge. Using Johnson’s No More Tears baby shampoo can be helpful to reduce the amount of debris that can block the meibomian gland openings, and again this may help reduce recurrences.

If no underlying cause is found we usually treat these with oral doxycycline (5mg/kg BID) and prednisolone (1mg/kg SID and taper). Prolonged treatment may be needed. Bacterial blepharitis is treated with antibiotics for a minimum of 3 weeks. In some cases a combined topical antibiotics/anti-inflammatory medication can be applied. If the affected dog has signs of other allergies, referral to a dermatologist may be required.

Prognosis

The long term prognosis depends upon the underlying cause. Most dogs will respond well to a prolonged (2 to 3 weeks) course of antibiotics and cortisone. If the response is poor then further testing to find an underlying cause is indicated.

Blepharitis | Face And Eye

Blepharitis is a very common inflammatory disorder of the edge of the eyelids where the eyelashes are located. Bacteria, which normally exist on our skin, are drawn to crusts around the base of the eyelashes and produce chemical substances which irritate the eyes resulting in itching, irritation and burning of the eyes. The ducts of special glands, called meibomian glands, which are located in the eyelids just behind the eyelashes, become blocked. These glands are important in helping to prevent the film of tears which covers the very sensitive cornea (the clear window of the eye) from evaporating too rapidly in between blinks, as they produce the mucus layer of the tear film.

Blepharitis results in:

• Tear film instability which in turns results in irritation, a foreign body sensation, burning, itching and redness of the eyes (dry eye symptoms)

• Tearing of the eyes due to an overproduction and overflow of tears as a reflex reaction to eye irritation

• Red inflamed eyelid margins (see photograph below)

• Cyst formation in the eyelid (chalazion or meibomian cyst – see photograph below)

• Inturning of the eyelid margins (entropion) resulting in painful rubbing of the eyelashes against the cornea

• Corneal ulcer (marginal ulcer or marginal keratitis)

How do I know if I have blepharitis?

The edges (rims) of the eyelids become red and the eyelashes tend to stick together with visible tiny crusts. The eyes themselves are often red and sore. In the mornings the eyelids tend to stick together, sometimes with a yellow discharge.

These changes cause the eyes to be sore and irritable, with a gritty foreign body feeling and with an aversion to lights (photophobia). Watery eyes due to the reflex production of excess tears is common.

What causes blepharitis?

Blepharitis is more common in people with certain skin conditions:

• Seborrhoeic dermatitis – a common scaly skin disorder. This typically results in dandruff and sometimes a rash on the cheeks and forehead.
• Rosacea – a skin disorder that typically affects the cheeks and nose. The associated symptoms include facial flushing, facial redness, and red spots. (Click here to read a recent review article on ocular manifestations of rosacea).
• Eczema (atopic dermatitis) – an itchy inflammatory condition of the skin which tends to flare-up from time to time. It can be associated with a variety of allergies.

There are 2 main types of blepharitis:

Tiny dandruff-like flakes accumulate along the bases of the eyelashes. Bacteria invade the flakes and cause anterior blepharitis in some people (see photograph below illustrating anterior blepharitis). Seborrheoic dermatitis, which typically causes dandruff, can also cause these flakes to accumulate along the eyelid margin.

Anterior blepharitis

A row of special glands in the upper and lower eyelids (the meibomian glands) secrete an oily substance that coats the tear film and prevents the film from evaporating in between blinks. In some people the ducts of the meibomian glands become blocked. This results in a disorder referred to as meibomitis or meibomian gland disease.

Posterior blepharitis

Meibomitis in turn results in:

1. Instability of the tear film and dry eye syndrome: the oily secretions can no longer coat the tear film effectively and this results in the tear film evaporating too rapidly leaving the eye feeling irritable and sore

2. A frothy discharge on the eyelid edges

3. Clogging up of the meibomian gland ducts on the eyelid edges resulting in the formation of a plug (see photograph below)

Blocked meibomian gland orifices

4. The formation of eyelid cysts (chalazia or meibomian cysts) as the blocked meibomian gland swells and bursts its capsule resulting in a red swollen eyelid (see photograph below)

An upper lid chalazion

Is it serious?

No. Blepharitis only very rarely causes any permanent damage to the eyes. However, blepharitis is a very persistent problem. (Blepharitis which is confined to the eyelid(s) on one side only should, however, be viewed with great suspicion as very rarely tumours e.g. rodent ulcers, can mimic blepharitis and lead to misdiagnosis).

Treatment can usually only control the problem and cannot get rid of it altogether.

What is the treatment?

Strict hygiene of the eyelids is the mainstay of treatment and should be undertaken in the morning and evening for the first 2-3 weeks and then at least once every day indefinitely to keep the inflammation under control. 

There are 3 steps needed for effective lid hygiene:

1. The application of heat

2. Massage

3. Cleaning

Heat application:

Heat applied to the eyelids for 5 minutes:

• Softens the skin and any crusts that are attached to the eyelids/eyelashes
• Helps to unplug the ducts of the meibomian glands
• The traditional method is to apply a hot moist flannel or cotton pad to the closed eyelids. This is somewhat tedious because the flannel or cotton wool pad cool quickly and need to be repeatedly heated up in hot water
• The EyeBag™ is a much more convenient and effective method of heat application because it provides sustained warmth for 5-10minutes – this is available to purchase at the Face & Eye Clinic

Click here to see how to use an Eye Bag.

Massage:

• Massage the eyelids with your forefinger straight after applying the warmth.

• Massaging helps to force out the oily fluid from the meibomian glands which then helps to stabilise the tear film on the surface of the eye.

• Massage the upper eyelid and the lower eyelid gently towards the eye. This action should be repeated 5 to 10 times over about 30 seconds immediately following the application of heat.

• Massaging should neither to be too gentle nor too firm. It should be relatively comfortable and you should not press hard enough to actually hurt your eye under the closed eyelids.

Cleaning:

After heat application and massage, clean the eyelids.

Blephaclean® wipes twice daily for 1 or 2 weeks are an excellent way to achieve rapid control of blepharitis. Click here to see how to use these wipes. (These wipes are particularly useful in removing eye make-up, avoiding irritation/allergy associated with other eye make-up removers). Blephasol® solution on a cotton bud once daily can then be used as daily maintenance to keep the eyelid margins clean.

Microblepharoexfoliation (MBE)

This new treatment is performed using an instrument called BlephEx™, a handheld device with a high-speed/high-torque rotating PVA sponge. Click here to see how this is performed. The spinning tip is first soaked and softened in a lid cleaning solution. The spinning tip is then used to mechanically debride the lid margins and remove crusts and debris.

By eliminating the inflammatory debris associated with blepharitis, the overall health of the eyelid is improved. Patients can then begin to produce better meibomian gland secretions and finally enjoy a life free from the chronic and irritating symptoms associated with blepharitis and its subsequent evaporative dry eye problems.

Click here to watch a video of Mr Ataullah performing this treatment on a patient at the Face & Eye Clinic – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iRM_rbpXvCk&feature=youtu.be

Visit www.blephexlids.co.uk for more information.

This treatment has recently been highlighted in the press: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-3908398/amp/A-deep-clean-procedure-chronic-eyelid-infections-offered-British-clinics.html

Antibiotic ointment:

In severe blepharitis a topical antibiotic (e.g. Chloramphenicol ointment) can be applied to the lid margins after performing lid hygiene for a period of 2 weeks. This can reduce the bacteria contributing to eyelid margin inflammation and make it easier to control blepharitis using the treatment described above.

Ointments/drops containing steroids should not be used unless prescribed by an ophthalmologist.

Oral antibiotics:

Occasionally if posterior blepharitis cannot be controlled with local treatment as described above it is worth considering a 6-12 weeks course of oral doxycycline (typically 100mg taken orally once daily) or a shorter course of Clarithromycin as this can reduce the inflammation associated with blepharitis. N.B. This cannot be used during pregnancy.

Is that all I have to do?

Since blepharitis causes tears to be abnormal, artificial tears can give relief from irritation, even when your eyes are watering (eyes can water as a reflex reaction to a basic dry eye problem or tear film abnormality). These should be used at least 4 times a day at least to prevent symptoms rather than to just relieve symptoms. There is a large variety of artificial tear preparations to choose from. It is preferable to use preservative free drops. These can be purchased from the clinic.

Ophthalmology “Oculus”

Contents of the article:

• Reasons for the discharge of pus
• Treatment and preventive measures

Normally, the human visual organ produces mucus of a whitish color, which covers the outer shell of the eye and serves for protection.

If the mucus becomes abundant, changes its tint to yellow, then it is believed that the eyes fester, but for what reason – we will consider further.

Reasons for the discharge of pus

• Conjunctivitis – It is caused by allergies, exposure to viruses or bacteria.The bacterial nature of conjunctivitis causes a profuse, thick, yellow-green discharge. Allergies may be accompanied by a yellowish watery discharge.
• Other infectious eye infections – fungal keratitis, herpes.
• With a corneal ulcer, the eyes also fester. is the result of an untreated injury to the eyeball, which can lead to blindness.
• Dacryocystitis – inflammation of the lacrimal capsule. When it is probed, the discharge of pus is clearly visible.
• Blepharitis – inflammation of the edges of the eyelids with damage to the roots of the eyelashes. With blepharitis, the eyes fester mainly in the morning, the mucus has a frothy character and a yellow-green color.
• Barley is a disease of the hair capsule. In addition to the reddened eyelid, purulent discharge is observed, which is clearly manifested after a bath or steam room.
• Dry Eye – This syndrome is chronic. The main symptoms are: burning, foreign body sensation, red eyes, blurred vision and pus.

Treatment and preventive measures

If you find yourself with the unpleasant symptoms described above, and uncharacteristic discharge (eyes festering), do not neglect a visit to an ophthalmologist. Suppurations of bacterial origin are well treated with antibiotics, and in the case of an allergic nature, symptomatic treatment is prescribed – antiallergic ointments and drops that alleviate the condition.

To avoid suppuration, follow the basic rules recommended by doctors:

• do not touch your eyes unnecessarily;
• wash your hands more often;
• if painful symptoms appear while wearing lenses, remove them and consult a doctor;
• if your eyes still fester, refrain from makeup.

Our clinic has modern ophthalmic equipment for the diagnosis and treatment of eye diseases. Experienced doctors will make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the optimal treatment.

90,000 What is blepharitis /? Symptoms and treatment

What is blepharitis? Tell us about the causes and symptoms of this disease, methods of its treatment. Elena Vaskova, Vitebsk

Blepharitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the eyelids, usually bilateral.Until now, there is no clear data on its etiology and the mechanism of development of this pathological process.

Anterior and posterior blepharitis are distinguished. With anterior blepharitis, the part of the eyelid around the base of the eyelashes is affected, this may be due to staphylococcal infection or seborrhea. With staphylococcal infection, redness of the eye and peripheral corneal infiltrates are observed. Seborrheic blepharitis is always combined with seborrheic dermatitis. Therefore, such lesions are visible on the scalp, chest, nasolabial folds and other places.With seborrheic blepharitis, in addition to hyperemia of the anterior part of the eyelid, a greasy coating appears, eyelashes stick together. Soft scales are located on the eyelashes and along the edge of the eyelid.

Due to contact between the eyelids and the eyeball, inflammation can quickly spread to the conjunctiva and cornea. At the same time, a person complains of burning sensation, a feeling of “sand in the eyes”, a moderate photophobia. Changes in the eyelids themselves are characteristic – hard scales and crusts are formed around the base of the eyelashes. Moderate conjunctivitis is often associated.With a prolonged course of the disease along the edge of the eyelids, cicatricial changes are formed in the form of notches and irregularities. Very often there is barley, marginal keratitis. With this disease, dry eye syndrome is also often observed.

Posterior blepharitis is caused by dysfunction of the meibomian glands. At the same time, the viscosity of the secretion increases, its outflow is disturbed, which contributes to the reproduction of pathogenic staphylococcus. The ducts of these glands go to the edge of the eyelid, and their secret is a sebaceous discharge that prevents the tears from wetting the eyelid and contributes to the preservation of the tear film on the surface of the eye.With posterior blepharitis, the ducts are clogged, the edge of the eyelid is hyperemic, when pressed on it, a fatty secretion is abundantly released, the tear film is foamy and oily, foamy discharge accumulates in the corner of the eye. Posterior blepharitis is often accompanied by chronic inflammation of the lid margin around the meibomian glands. In the lower parts of the cornea, pinpoint erosion may occur.

In the treatment of blepharitis, hygienic treatment of the eyelid is important, when warm compresses are applied to the closed eye to soften the crusts.After that, they are removed with a cotton swab moistened with baby shampoo or a weak solution of baking soda. This procedure must be carried out constantly 2-3 times a day, and even if the condition improves, it cannot be completely abandoned, since relapses of the disease are possible (although the frequency of such hygienic procedures can be reduced). With posterior blepharitis, an additional massage of the eyelids is required to improve the outflow of the secretion of the meibomian glands.

You can use antibiotics, corticosteroids and artificial tears, but the ophthalmologist will choose a specific treatment based on the characteristics of the course of this disease.The methods of traditional medicine can also be useful – the use of decoctions of chamomile, calendula or strong tea for making compresses. You need to be prepared for long-term treatment, since blepharitis can last a lifetime, full recovery is unlikely, but a lasting improvement in the condition with proper treatment is quite possible.

Yuri Kuzmenkov, doctor of the Republican Scientific and Practical Center “Cardiology”

The doctor’s sphere of interests is therapy, cardiology, endocrinology.

We are waiting for your questions, friends!

Complete reprint of text and photographs is prohibited. Partial citation is permitted provided there is a hyperlink.

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90,000 Eye discharge – causes and treatment

Discharge from the eyes – the appearance of a discharge of different nature from the conjunctival sac or directly from the mucous membrane of the eyeball.In general, the appearance of discharge from the eyes is a protective reaction of the body: with their help, the eyes are cleared of dust, microorganisms, allergens, small foreign particles, etc. The eye discharge itself is not dangerous, but in some cases it may indicate a more serious eye pathology. requiring active treatment.

Reasons

The main causes of ocular discharge are:

• individual allergic reaction
• inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye (conjunctivitis) or eyelids (blepharitis)
• some processes not associated with infection (for example, dry eye syndrome)

Peculiarities of eye discharge under various conditions

Depending on the cause, the nature of the discharge from the eyes is different.So, bacterial or viral inflammation of the eyes is usually accompanied by the appearance of abundant, viscous discharge, often having the appearance of cloudy mucus or crusts in the corners of the eyes. These symptoms require immediate seeking qualified medical help, because without treatment, conjunctivitis progresses, and the patient’s condition is rapidly deteriorating. It should be borne in mind that conjunctivitis is often contagious to the people around the patient, children are especially susceptible to infection.The infection is transmitted through the use of shared towels, pillows, when visiting the pool. At the same time, correctly prescribed treatment will quickly eliminate the symptoms of eye inflammation.

Allergic eye discharge copious and may resemble lacrimation. In addition, patients are worried about itching, as well as swelling and severe redness of the mucous membrane of the eyes. With the use of antihistamines (in the form of tablets or eye drops), as well as in case of termination of contact with the allergen, such discharge from the eyes quickly disappears.

Inflammation of the eyelids (blepharitis) is also accompanied by the appearance of discharge from the eyes. Among the reasons that can cause the development of blepharitis, one should mention infections (as a result of poor hygiene, against the background of a weakened immune system, with excessive production of sebum), infection with demodex. Often, discharge from the eyes with blepharitis has the form of dry crusts or scales located along the edges of the eyelids, while the eyelids themselves may be swollen. To exclude infection with Demodex, you will need to undergo a special examination.Blepharitis is not the easiest eye disease in terms of treatment; it requires long-term targeted complex treatment. In the absence of adequate therapy, blepharitis can lead to blurred vision and eyelid deformation.

Whatever the reason for the appearance of discharge from the eyes, you should definitely consult a doctor for examination and appropriate treatment. Self-medication very often can be not only ineffective, but also lead to a worsening of the patient’s condition.

The doctors of our clinic will conduct a thorough examination to identify the causes of discharge from the eyes and prescribe a treatment that will help to quickly improve the patient’s condition.Remember: only the right treatment can completely get rid of discharge from the eyes and avoid complications.

You can make an appointment at the Moscow Eye Clinic by calling in Moscow 8 (800) 777-38-81 and 8 (499) 322-36-36 (daily from 9:00 to 21:00) or using the online registration form.

90 000 The kitten’s eyes fester – what to do if the kitten’s eyes fester: how to treat, how to wash

What to do when a kitten’s eyes fester? We establish the cause, take action and do not forget about prevention

We analyze the possible reasons for the appearance of discharge from the eyes of your pet and tell you what to do when the kitten’s eyes fester.

Reasons

Normally, after sleeping in the inner corners of the kitten’s eyes, a clear or slightly turbid liquid collects, which can dry out and accumulate over time. Stronger lacrimation, and even more festering eyes, is an alarming symptom, the severity of which cannot be ignored.

It is important to understand that when a kitten’s eyes fester, it may not be an independent disease, but a symptom of very serious infectious, viral and parasitic diseases, such as chlamydia, toxoplasmosis, mycoplasmosis, herpes, calcivirosis.Therefore, if the cause of the disease is not obvious, it is necessary to urgently consult a veterinarian for a full examination.

In addition to the reasons listed above, festering eyes can be a symptom of less terrible, but still very unpleasant diseases, such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, keratitis and fairly harmless non-specific cat colds, as well as any eye trauma.

It is not recommended to make a diagnosis on your own, and even more so to carry out treatment, you first need to figure out what kind of disease we are dealing with.

Injuries to the eyes and eyelids in a kitten are often accompanied by bruising. You can notice the wound, swelling. Blepharitis is characterized by constant irritating itching in the eyes, the kitten begins to scratch them, bringing another infection into the affected area.

Purulent conjunctivitis is the most common. In this case, the inflammation affects both eyes. Soreness of the eye area and fever are also characteristic.

What to do if a kitten’s eyes fester?

Self-medication of viral, parasitic, fungal diseases is fraught with serious consequences – up to the loss of an eye, and sometimes the death of an animal.Therefore, if you suspect this pathology, you urgently need to consult a specialist.

In less severe situations, treatment depends on the cause. If it is conjunctivitis, topical antibiotic treatment will be effective. With blepharitis, complex treatment is required, including injectable drugs.

It must be remembered that these pathologies are characterized by damage to both eyes, therefore, even if the visible lesion affected only one eye, the other must be treated preventively.

Treatment of wounds and foreign bodies in the eye should begin with primary treatment aimed at cleaning the wound, removing foreign body and accumulation of pus. Further treatment is carried out with the use of healing and antibacterial agents.

It is recommended to choose drugs that enhance natural immunity (systemic and local). For colds, you can limit yourself to daily eye treatment using decoctions of herbs (chamomile, St. John’s wort, calendula) and antiseptic solutions.

However, no matter how “frivolous” the disease may seem to you, do not try to solve the problem yourself. Be sure to contact your veterinarian. Only he can correctly diagnose and prescribe the appropriate treatment. This will save your pet from potential complications.

Prevention

Preventive measures should be based on an understanding of the root cause of the disease. It is better to prevent viral, fungal and parasitic diseases.To do this, you need to adhere to the schedule of routine vaccinations.

In order to prevent conjunctivitis, it is necessary to clear the accumulated discharge. It is most convenient to use boiled water for this. Add specialized hygienic solutions for eye care (for example, based on a decoction of chamomile) to boiled water. It should be remembered that some solutions can stain the coat of light-colored cats.

Prevention of colds is simple enough: avoid drafts, significant temperature changes and cooling.And if, nevertheless, your pet gets sick, when the first signs appear, immediately contact your veterinarian for a diagnosis and treatment.

In case of injuries and development of blepharitis, first of all, avoid scratching the wounds, it is also important to remove hair that gets into the eyes.

Treatment of conjunctivitis, barley, chalazion, blepharitis, keratitis, scleritis – treatment of inflammatory eye diseases

• Conjunctivitis. Conjunctivitis treatment
  Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the connective tissue lining of the eye (conjunctiva), which covers the outside of the eyeball and the back of the eyelids with a thin film.The clinical picture of conjunctivitis is redness and swelling of the conjunctiva, lacrimation, a feeling of cramps and itching in the eyes. With timely 9020 treatment of conjunctivitis , the prognosis is favorable. It is important to contact a competent specialist in time. After a thorough examination, the doctor will prescribe an individualized course of treatment. Most often, drops are prescribed, and, if necessary, special preparations (ointments and gels).
• Barley. Treatment of barley
  Barley is an acute purulent inflammation of the hair follicle of the eyelash and the sebaceous gland located next to it.When bacteria enter the duct of the sebaceous gland (more often Staphylococcus aureus, streptococcus), an inflammatory reaction begins, which is accompanied by edema and the formation of an abscess, the eyelid becomes painful. After a while, a bubble with pus appears on the surface of the eyelid, which comes out a little later. Only an experienced doctor will be able to prescribe in time effective means for treating barley – special drops and ointments. You can not self-medicate with folk remedies (we are talking about the health of your child!), You need to see a doctor! In the absence of adequate treatment, barley can turn into much more dangerous purulent inflammatory processes.
• Chaliazion. Treatment
  According to the symptoms, it is easy to confuse it with barley, because this disease is also an inflammation of the eyelids. This process is sluggish and almost painless. Chalazion is characterized by the appearance in the thickness of the eyelid tissue by a dense rounded formation the size of a match head or more. Most often, therapeutic methods are used in the treatment of chalazion, aimed at relieving inflammation of the eyelid – ointments, drops, compresses. If the disease is neglected, the doctor may decide to administer drugs with the help of injections or start the operative treatment of chalazion .
• Blepharitis. Blepharitis Treatment
  Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids. It is characterized by inflammation of the sebaceous glands of the eyelids and the release of pathologically altered secretions from them. With blepharitis, the child’s eyelids turn red and thicken, itching may appear in the eyelid area. You must immediately consult a doctor. He will examine the child and select effective in a particular case blepharitis treatment – drops, ointments, gels. Treatment of blepharitis brings good results when the cause of the disease and its form are clearly established (there are scaly, ulcerative, angular form).
• Keratitis. Keratitis Treatment
  Keratitis is an inflammation of the cornea. In this case, the eye turns red, inflammatory infiltrates of various shades appear in the cornea (whitish, grayish, yellowish). The child complains of cutting pain, lacrimation, photophobia, feeling of a “speck” in the eye. The key to the effectiveness of the treatment of keratitis is a correctly established cause of the disease. Only in this case, the doctor will be able to prescribe an adequate treatment for keratitis and eliminate the disease. Wearing contact lenses is canceled during the treatment of keratitis!
• Sclerite.Scleritis Treatment
  Scleritis is an inflammation of the outer lining of the eye, which is a dense, opaque, proteinaceous tissue. Treatment of scleritis is aimed at destroying infectious agents (bacteria, viruses, fungi), eliminating inflammation and strengthening local immunity.

In childhood, due to imperfections in the mechanism of local and systemic immunity, tenderness of the connective tissue and mucous structures of the eye, inflammatory eye diseases are very common.Their development can be prevented by means of prevention, and only a qualified specialist should deal with treatment. Before using traditional methods of treatment, think about the risks to your child’s health!

Seek competent medical help at the Tonus AMARIS Pediatric Ophthalmology Center. Highly qualified pediatricians will provide your child with timely and effective help, care and attention, relieve you of worries and worries!

Diseases of the eye | “Moscow Regional Research Clinical Institute named afterM.F. Vladimirsky “

DISEASES OF THE EYE AND ADHESIVE APPARATUS

Glaucoma

Glaucoma (from the Greek – the color of sea water, azure) is a serious disease of the organ of vision, named from the greenish color, which acquires a dilated and motionless pupil at the stage of the highest development of the painful process – an acute attack of glaucoma

Glaucoma is a large group of eye diseases characterized by a constant or periodic increase in intraocular pressure above the tolerable level for a given person, followed by the development of typical visual field defects, decreased visual acuity and damage to the optic nerve fibers.

Glaucoma can occur at any age, starting from birth, but the prevalence of the disease increases significantly in old and old age.

Symptoms: Red eyes, “dark” spot in the field of vision, eye pain, blurred vision, pain in the eye, significant deterioration of vision in the dark, decreased visual acuity, “rainbow circles” before the eyes when looking at bright light.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis – Reaction in the form of inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye (conjunctiva).It occurs due to infection, chemical irritation, damage, allergic reactions and other reasons.

Symptoms: lachrymation, foreign body sensation, cutting pain, itching, photophobia, eyelid edema, watery or purulent discharge from the eyes.

Keratitis

Keratitis is a group of inflammatory lesions of the cornea – the anterior transparent membrane of the eye. May be of traumatic or infectious (flu, tuberculosis, etc.) origin. It can affect one eye or both at the same time.Decreased immunity, wearing contact lenses, and dry eye syndrome increase the risk of keratitis. A possible outcome of keratitis is a thorn, decreased vision.

Symptoms: red eyes, eye pain, lacrimation, photophobia, decreased vision.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is an inflammatory disease of the ciliary edges of the eyelids. This pathology is one of the most common eye diseases, which is difficult to treat. The causes of blepharitis can be chronic infectious and allergic diseases, viral infection, lack of vitamins, anemia, diseases of the digestive tract, teeth, nasopharynx, uncorrected vision pathology.

Symptoms: inflammation of the edge of the eyelids (redness, swelling), itching of the edges of the eyelids.

Uveitis

Uveitis – inflammation of the choroid (uveal tract).

The causal and triggering factors of uveitis are infections, allergic reactions, systemic and syndromic diseases, trauma, metabolic disorders and hormonal regulation.

Symptoms: “fog” in front of the eyes, blurred vision (even complete blindness is possible), redness of the eyes, photophobia and lacrimation.

Chalazion

Chalazion is a sebaceous gland cyst caused by chronic inflammation as a result of blockage of its duct. On the eyelid, a dense formation the size of a small pea is felt, the skin above it is raised, mobile, on the side of the conjunctiva there is an area of ​​hyperemia (redness) and a grayish zone in the center.

Symptoms: swollen eyelid, moderate pain and irritation, redness.

Dacryocystitis

Dacryocystitis is an inflammation of the lacrimal sac and the duct that drains the tear (nasolacrimal duct).Dacryocystitis can begin as a result of acquired or acquired at birth, narrowing (stenosis) of the ducts of the lacrimal gland. Sometimes the duct is completely blocked.

Symptoms: lacrimation, purulent discharge from the affected eye, swelling of the lacrimal sac (when pressed on it, a mucous or purulent fluid is released).

Cataract

Cataract – partial or complete opacity of the lens and causing various degrees of visual impairment up to its complete loss.With the development of the disease, stripes, streaks and spots flickering before the eyes, halos around objects in bright light, and double vision are felt more and more sharply. As the cataract matures, the color of the pupil turns white instead of black.

Symptoms: Blurred vision (“as if in a fog”), sensitivity to bright light, sensations of flashes and glare, especially at night, light sources are surrounded by a “halo”, weakening of color perception, bifurcation of objects when the second eye is closed.

If you have found signs of eye diseases, contact the specialists at the Ophthalmology Department of KDO, where you will be provided with advice and diagnostic assistance. The department is equipped with modern equipment for diagnosing the pathology of the visual analyzer. Do not postpone the consultation of an ophthalmologist in order to prevent the disease in time and prevent it.

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8 (499) 674-07-09

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Eye applicator | Delfanto®

Prolonged use of the computer, poor lighting of the workplace, driving in difficult weather conditions – all this negatively affects the condition of the eyes.Therefore, visual fatigue for a modern person sooner or later becomes a common occurrence. This is a serious problem that needs to be addressed.

To avoid the unpleasant consequences associated with overworking the visual apparatus, the Delfanto® applicator – a warm salt warmer-compress for the eyes – will help. It instantly heats up due to the release of heat during the crystallization of salt from a supersaturated solution and can be used at home.

Indications for Use: How does Delfanto® Warm Eye Applicator work?

The Delfanto® applicator can be used to solve various ophthalmic problems:

For blepharitis

Blepharitis is a chronic inflammation of the outer edge or of the entire eyelid, which is accompanied by swelling and redness, photophobia, itching, the appearance of eye discharge that sticks together the eyelashes. The pathological process can affect the skin, eyelash follicles, affect the mucous membrane, and cause dysfunction of the meibomian glands.The fat that accumulates on the edges of the eyelids is a favorable breeding ground for bacteria. Gradually, it becomes denser, which leads to clogging of the ducts of the glands, the formation of ulcers, chalazion.

The use of the warm saline applicator Delfanto® promotes the expansion of the ducts of the meibomian glands, helps to reduce the softening of the viscous secretion, and to accelerate its excretion. It is especially useful to use compresses on the eyes in combination with massage of the eyelids.

For dry eye syndrome

At some point, almost everyone experiences a sense of discomfort when the eyes become too dry.But for some people, dry eyes are more than just temporary irritation. This is a persistent problem called ocular surface disease that requires ongoing treatment. This is especially common in office workers, lens wearers, and the elderly. DES is accompanied by a burning sensation, itching, redness of the eyelid, and a feeling of dryness.

Dry eye discomfort is often caused by a blockage of tiny sebaceous glands along the edge of the eyelids. These so-called meibomian glands give tears a protective oil layer called the meibomian layer.Meibum prevents your tears from drying out too quickly, but in patients with dry eyes, the meibum can thicken and clog the glands.

The use of heat in the form of a compress helps to completely cleanse the meibomian glands, allows you to get rid of unpleasant symptoms of DES, increases blood flow to the eyelids, improves the functioning of the lacrimal and sebaceous glands (produce lipids that are responsible for the stability of the tear film), and increases the volume of tear fluid. Thanks to this, the film covering the cornea becomes more stable, the eyes receive natural lubrication, and discomfort is eliminated.

For eye fatigue

The state of fatigue of the visual apparatus occurs as a result of prolonged, excessive stress. This leads to the fact that tired eyes turn red, there is a burning sensation, cramps, sensitivity to light increases. Sometimes, with visual fatigue, a veil appears before the eyes, vision becomes blurred, and its sharpness decreases.

Soothing eye compresses can help relieve unpleasant symptoms.Under the influence of heat, blood vessels expand, blood flow increases, muscle tone decreases, spasms caused by prolonged stress on the visual apparatus are eliminated.

A warm saline compress improves the functioning of the eye apparatus, activates capillary blood supply and restores the functions of the organ of vision.

Contraindications to the use of the product are trauma to the organ of vision, bleeding, eye infections.It cannot be used in the presence of oncological diseases.

How to use Delfanto® Warm Eye Applicator

It is convenient to take it with you on vacation, you can use it at home and even at work. The product can be used as a warm and cold compress, depending on the problem.

How to make a warm compress?

The Delfanto® applicator instantly heats up to the required temperature and retains heat for a long time.Only three steps are required:

1. Launching the applicator. Inside an airtight container filled with a highly concentrated saline solution, there is a special activator stick. It moves freely in a liquid that is in equilibrium. To start a reaction, during which heat is actively released, you need to find an activator and bend it at an angle of 5-10 °. The heating pad will instantly heat up and be ready for use.
2. Salt compress application.Get into a comfortable position and apply the compress to your eyes. Its duration is from 20 to 30 minutes. To fix the applicator well, use the rubber band included in the kit.
3. Restoration of the applicator. To trigger a reverse reaction and dissolve salt crystals, place the applicator in a protective bag (included) and place it in boiling water for 15-20 minutes. The crystals will dissolve by absorbing the heat and the applicator can be used again.The product is designed for 2000 activation / recovery cycles.

How to make a cold compress?

The Delfanto® applicator can be used as a cold compress for the eyes against morning swelling of the eyes. To do this, the unlaunched applicator must be sent to cool in the refrigerator for 30-40 minutes, after which it can be applied to the eyes (exposure time up to 15 minutes).

Attention! The applicator must not be frozen, as the solution self-crystallizes at a temperature of -8 ° C.

Consult a physician before using this Warm Eye Compress for fatigue treatment.