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Start your blepharitis treatment online today with a quick and easy appointment. Speak to a specialist who will understand your symptoms and create a personalised plan to relieve and improve your eyelids' health.

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Personalised Treatment Plans

Blepharitis treatment online at Mobi Doctor offers customised care to manage redness, irritation, and crusting. From hygiene routines to medicated options, an online doctor will help you find the best solutions for your condition, all from the comfort of your home.

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Get expert guidance for blepharitis through online consultations. Regular check-ins and tailored advice ensure you stay on track with your treatment plan, helping you achieve healthier, more comfortable eyes.

What Is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis, pronounced blef-uh-RYE-tis, is a common condition that causes inflammation of the eyelids. It often affects both eyes simultaneously, making the eyelids' edges red, swollen, and sometimes covered in flaky, scaly crusts. Because of these symptoms, it’s often nicknamed "eye dandruff.”

 

Blepharitis can also cause sticky plaque, or biofilm, to form along the eyelids, leading to lash loss, clogged glands, and occasional infections.

 

There are two main types of blepharitis:

 

  • Anterior Blepharitis: This affects the front of the eyelid near the base of the eyelashes.

  • Posterior Blepharitis occurs at the back of the eyelid and involves the oil-producing Meibomian glands.

 

Blepharitis is not contagious and does not typically lead to severe problems like blindness. However, if left untreated, it can cause discomfort and affect the health of your eyes.

 

If you suspect blepharitis, an eye doctor can diagnose it during an exam and recommend treatments to manage your symptoms and improve your eye health.

Blepharitis Symptoms

Blepharitis is a common condition that causes inflammation of the eyelids. It often affects both eyes and can lead to persistent and uncomfortable symptoms. Recognising these signs can help you seek treatment and manage the condition effectively.

Common Symptoms

  • Irritation And Itching: Your eyelids may feel itchy, tender, or uncomfortable.

  • Redness And Swelling: The edges of the eyelids often appear red and may become swollen.

  • Crusting And Flakes: Dandruff-like scales or crusts can build up along the base of the eyelashes or at the corners of the eyes, making the eyelids stick together, especially in the morning.

  • Dry Or Watery Eyes: You may experience excessive tearing or dryness, sometimes feeling like there’s something stuck in your eye.

  • Burning Or Stinging: A burning sensation in the eyes is common with blepharitis.

Other Possible Symptoms

  • Light Sensitivity: Bright light may feel uncomfortable.

  • Blurred Vision: Vision might be temporarily unclear.

  • Lash Problems: Eyelashes may fall out, grow in the wrong direction (trichiasis), or become greasy.

Blepharitis can be uncomfortable but is usually not serious. If these symptoms persist or worsen, an eye doctor can provide treatments to reduce inflammation and improve eye health. Regular cleaning of the eyelids and good eye hygiene are crucial to managing the condition.

Blepharitis Causes

Blepharitis happens when the edges of your eyelids become inflamed, often due to problems with the oil-producing glands in your eyelids or other underlying issues. The causes can vary depending on the type of blepharitis: anterior (affecting the front of the eyelid) or posterior (affecting the back).

Causes Of Anterior Blepharitis

  • Bacterial Overgrowth: Naturally occurring bacteria on your skin can multiply and irritate the eyelids.

  • Dandruff (Seborrheic Dermatitis): Flakes from dandruff can collect on your eyelids and irritate them.

  • Allergies: Reactions to eye drops, makeup, or contact lens solutions can lead to inflammation.

  • Mites (Demodex): Tiny mites can block eyelash follicles, causing irritation and swelling.

  • Overusing Eye Makeup: Excessive or old makeup can clog glands and lead to infection.

Causes Of Posterior Blepharitis

  • Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD): When these oil-producing glands don’t work correctly, tears may not lubricate your eyes well, leading to dryness and inflammation.

  • Rosacea: This skin condition often affects the eyelids, causing redness and swelling.

  • Scalp Dandruff: Flakes can spread to the eyelids and trigger irritation.

People with oily skin, dry eyes, or rosacea are likelier to develop blepharitis. Though the exact cause isn’t always straightforward, keeping your eyelids clean and managing underlying conditions can help reduce the risk. If symptoms persist, consult an eye doctor for proper treatment.

Blepharitis Treatment

Blepharitis can be uncomfortable, but there are simple ways to treat it and feel better. You can try at-home care or seek help from a doctor if the problem doesn’t improve.

At-Home Treatments

  • Warm Compresses: Take a clean washcloth, soak it in warm water, and place it over your closed eyes. This helps soften crusts and clears oily debris. Reheat the cloth if it cools down.

  • Eyelid Cleaning: Use a store-bought lid scrub or make your own by mixing water and baby shampoo. Gently clean your eyelids with the solution using a clean cloth. Rinse well with warm water.

  • Healthy Eating: Adding omega-3s from fish or flaxseed can help with inflammation and improve eyelid health. Eating more leafy green vegetables and avoiding fatty foods can also help.

Medical Treatments

If at-home care doesn’t work, your doctor may suggest:

  • Artificial Tears: To reduce dryness and irritation.

  • Medications: Antibiotics or antiviral drops, creams, or pills to treat infections.

  • Unique Treatments: Your doctor may use light therapy or gentle heat to unclog oil glands.

Keeping your eyelids clean and following your doctor’s advice can help you manage blepharitis and keep your eyes healthy. If symptoms don’t improve, talk to a doctor.

Blepharitis Prevention

Blepharitis can be hard to stop completely, but good habits can help lower your chances of getting it or worsening it. Follow these simple tips to keep your eyes healthy.

Keep Your Eyelids Clean

Wash your eyelids gently daily with a mild cleanser or unique lid scrub. This helps remove dirt, oil, and flakes. Always take off your eye makeup before bed to stop irritation.

Avoid Irritating Your Eyes

Don’t rub or touch your eyes, even if they’re itchy. If you need to wipe them, use a clean tissue. If you wear contact lenses, switch to glasses until your eyes feel better.

Throw Out Old Makeup

Old makeup can hold bacteria, which can make blepharitis worse. Replace items like mascara and eyeliner often, especially if you’ve had an infection. Avoid putting makeup on the back edge of your eyelids, as this can block oil glands.

Take Care Of Your Eyes

If your eyes feel dry, use artificial tears to keep them comfortable. Adding omega-3 foods like fish or seeds can help reduce inflammation and keep your eyelids healthy.

Following these simple steps can keep your eyes healthy and reduce your chances of getting blepharitis. If you still have problems, talk to your doctor. Mobi Doctor provides expert online consultations and personalised plans to help prevent and manage blepharitis. Get professional advice and support from the comfort of your home.

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