Comprehensive information for you or a loved one — including treatment options and discounts on popular medications.
Published on February 6, 2024
Definition
Blepharitis is an inflammatory eye condition that affects the eyelid edge. Your eyelid ridge (or eyelid margin) is made up of skin, tiny oil glands, and hair follicles from which the eyelashes grow.
There are two types of blepharitis:
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Anterior blepharitis: This affects the eyelashes, eyelash follicles, and eyelid skin.
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Posterior blepharitis: This affects the oil (meibomian) glands.
It’s possible to develop both types of blepharitis at the same time. Anyone can develop blepharitis from time to time. But some people have frequent episodes that come and go. This is called chronic blepharitis.
Causes
It’s not clear what causes blepharitis. Skin bacteria and eyelash mites may increase the risk of developing blepharitis. Certain things can also trigger blepharitis episodes, including:
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Allergies
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Smoke exposure
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Cosmetics
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Retinoids
People with certain conditions, like dry eye and rosacea, are more likely to develop blepharitis too.
Symptoms
Blepharitis is an uncomfortable condition. It can lead to eyelid changes like:
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Redness
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Swelling
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Itching
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Crusting
Blepharitis doesn’t usually affect vision or cause scarring. It’s also not contagious. But episodes can be noticeable, which can take an emotional toll.
Treatments
There’s no cure for blepharitis. But there are blepharitis treatments that can help soothe symptoms and lower your risk of developing future flares. Here are some options:
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Warm compresses, eyelid scrubs, and cleansers: These can help remove bacteria, mites, and debris from the eyelid margin. And this can help lower the risk of future flares.
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Prescription medications: Medications like Xdemvy and antibiotic ointments can lower the number of mites and bacteria along the eyelid margin.
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In-office treatments: This includes options like intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy and thermal pulsation devices to offer relief from future flares.
References
Bunya, V. Y., et al. (2023). Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy. EyeWiki.
Fowler, B. T., et al. (2023). Blepharitis. EyeWiki.
