Blepharitis is an inflammation in the edges of the eyelids that causes pimples, scabs and other symptoms such as redness, itching and the sensation of having a speck in the eye.
This change is common and can arise overnight, in people of any age, including babies and is caused by a change in the glands of Meibomius, responsible for maintaining the balance of ocular moisture. Thus, when there is a blepharitis, these glands are no longer able to produce the oil needed to contain the tears, which potentiates the inflammation and it is necessary to be evaluated by an ophthalmologist.
Other diseases that also affect the eyelids of the eyes are the stye, scientifically called a hordeolum or chalazion, an alteration where the eyelids also turn red and swollen and so whenever the eyes are irritated, red, swollen or itchy, one should go to doctor. See what are the main causes of itchy eyes.
Symptoms of blepharitis
Blepharitis is not a contagious disease and symptoms include:
- Redness and swelling of the eyelids of the eyes;
- Presence of crusts and scales on the eyelids
- Itching and irritation of the eyes;
- Feeling that there is a speck in the eye;
- Constant eye tearing;
- Photophobia, which is the difficulty of keeping your eyes open in the sun.
In addition, other symptoms that are usually present are loss of eyelashes and during sleep the eyelids may stick together, it is difficult to open the eyes when waking.
Increased pollution, excessive skin oils, dust, dry air and excessive use of air conditioning may facilitate the installation of blepharitis.
How is the treatment?
The treatment for blepharitis is simple and can be done with the correct cleaning of the eyes using eye drops to clean the eyes and remove crusts and scabs. But it may be helpful to put a warm compress on the eyes daily for 15 to 20 minutes, about 2 to 3 times a day, until complete remission of symptoms.
When the individual has blepharitis caused by ocular rosacea, the use of antibiotics in the form of tablets is recommended. However, your doctor may also recommend the use of antibiotic ointments containing tetracycline or sulfa, which should be applied to the eyes before bed because they can make the vision blurry.
Home treatment
In the home treatment for inflammation in the eyelids one should opt for the consumption of anti-inflammatory foods like salmon, orange and acerola to accelerate the cure. See more examples of foods that help cure blepharitis faster by clicking here.
In addition chamomile compresses can help soothe the skin and irritation, bringing relief from the symptoms. Simply prepare a chamomile tea with 1 tablespoon of chamomile flowers in 1 cup of boiling water and let it stand for 5 minutes. The following should be used and the solution is ready for use.
To properly clean your eyes during a blepharitis, you should:
- Wash hands;
- Put a few drops of eye drops or chamomile tea right after preparation on a cotton swab, gauze or compress - See what types of eye drops are and what they are for;
- Look up while cleaning the lower eyelid and close the eye while wiping the upper eyelid;
- Wash hands again.
One should not attempt to remove the scabs without using eye drops because their removal can leave the region very sensitive, irritated and bleeding.
While these symptoms are present one should avoid maximizing makeup and contact lenses to speed up the healing process. The treatment time can vary from weeks to up to 1 or 2 months, and in cases of greater delay there are associated diseases, which must also be correctly treated so that blepharitis can be cured.
Signs and improvement
Signs of improvement appear after initiation of treatment with decreased crusting and ocular irritation.
Signs of worsening
They are characterized by the permanence or aggravation of the symptoms, having pus and signs of infection such as fever, so if these signs arise, one should go back to the doctor.
Possible Complications
Complications can arise due to increased bacteria, which triggers stronger signs of allergy, such as intense itching and eye irritation. These can also occur due to poor eye hygiene or incorrect application of the recommended medicines, so in these cases the doctor may recommend the use of corticosteroids in ointment.
The best way to avoid blepharitis is not to rub your hands over your eyes and keep the area clean.
