Eyelid inflammation is also known as blepharitis is a condition in which the lining of your eyelids starts growing an infection. This is the area where your eyelashes are attached to your eyelids and they become inflamed and irritated due to certain factors. Your eyes, in particular, might show signs of redness but will otherwise remain unaffected by the infection. The listed information will inform your better about this condition and how it can be addressed.
- Causes
One main cause of this bacterial infection to have occurred on your eyelids is because of the oil glands that are present there. Your oil glands can become clogged at times due to irregular oil production that can lead to the formation of the eye inflammation. Also, scalp dandruff, acne, allergies are a few among many factors that can cause inflammation.
- Types
There are two main types of eyelid inflammations that can affect your eyelids and they are anterior and posterior. If the inner lining of the eye that is close to the eyeball is affected by the oil glands, then this is a posterior eyelid inflammation. The anterior inflammation occurs closer to the eyelashes where scalp dandruff and allergies can cause further irritation to the eye lining.
- Symptoms
Symptoms that can help you diagnose the inflammation include itchy, red, oily or swollen eyelids along with irritation to the eyes that have caused them to appear red and watery. You can also expect sensitivity towards light and constant burning sensations within the eye that creates a lot of discomfort and irritation. Visit your ophthalmologist immediately to get the inflammation treated and subsided.
- Treatments
Your eye doctor will gauge at the extent of infection and inflammation and decide on the best course of treatment for you. This will be done with the help of a magnifying tool to see any signs of infection and a swab test that confirms the type of bacteria, fungi or virus that is growing on your eyelids. Depending on the diagnosis, your doctor will recommend a steroid treatment or a course of antibiotics for your relief.
The first type of treatment involves applying eye drops or an ointment that will stop the irritation and lubricate the eyes that will have become dry as a result of the constant inflammation. The antibiotics are to treat the infection and are given in the form of tablets, drops or ointments. The eye drops are chosen as a better option when the doctor recognizes the possibility of the infection spreading to other parts of the eye.
- Precaution, Prevention and Aftercare
As this condition is chronic and will reoccur in the future, it is best to take a lot of precautions after the treatment has been completed. This will reduce the chances of it recurring in the future and causing irritation and inflammation on a regular basis. The first step is to wash your face regularly and in a gentle manner to remove any bacterial build up. Ensure that all makeup, if you use any, is removed thoroughly and all your makeup brushes are washed periodically to keep them fresh and clean.
You must avoid touching your eyes without washing your hands first and also refrain from rubbing them. This can otherwise spread the infection further and introduce further complications to your case. Take all the medication that is prescribed to you and as it has been advised to gain optimum relief from pain. Using a stronger dandruff shampoo if you have a dry scalp, is also recommended to avoid anterior eyelid inflammation. You can speak to your dermatologist or family doctor to have a strong one prescribed for you.
By taking these basic precautions and preventions that also work for a good aftercare routine, you can stop the inflammation from coming back often. You can also inform yourself better about the causes, symptoms and treatments of eyelid inflammation and approach an eye specialist when needed. This will help prevent further complications and keep the health of your eyes in an optimum condition.
