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Blepharitis is a common condition that causes inflammation of the eyelids. The condition can be difficult to manage because it tends to recur.

Blepharitis occurs in two forms:

Anterior blepharitis affects the outside front of the eyelid, where the eyelashes are attached. The two most common causes of anterior blepharitis are bacteria (Staphylococcus) and scalp dandruff.

Posterior blepharitis affects the inner eyelid (the moist part that makes contact with the eye) and is caused by problems with the oil (meibomian) glands in this part of the eyelid. Two skin disorders can cause this form of blepharitis: acne rosacea, which leads to red and inflamed skin, and scalp dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis).

What are the symptoms of blepharitis?
Symptoms of either form of blepharitis include a foreign body or burning sensation, excessive tearing, itching, sensitivity to light (photophobia), red and swollen eyelids, redness of the eye, blurred vision, frothy tears, dry eye, or crusting of the eyelashes on awakening.

What other conditions are associated with blepharitis?
Complications from blepharitis include:

Stye: A red tender bump on the eyelid that is caused by an acute infection of the oil glands of the eyelid.

Chalazion: This condition can follow the development of a stye. It is a usually painless firm lump caused by inflammation of the oil glands of the eyelid. Chalazion can be painful and red if there is also an infection.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is a common condition, that results in inflammation affecting the eyelids, and eyelashes. Symptoms of blepharitis include redness, irritation, crusting, and a dry or sandy feeling in the eyes and eyelids. In most cases, this condition does not cause damage to one’s vision. Typical causes of this condition include bacterial infections, allergic reactions, excessive oil production by glands in the eyelid, or poor eyelid hygiene.

If you are experiencing symptoms of Blepharitis, contact your eye care professional to schedule an eye examination.

Introducing Blephex

Introducing BlephEx, a treatment that will be used to treat Blepharitis. The BlephEx instrument is used to very precisely spin along the edges of your eyelids and lashes, removing scurf and debris, and exfoliating the lids. With it, we can safely clean the lids and lashes, which will almost immediately improve symptoms. 

Most importantly, this will help avoid long-term inflammation damage to one’s tear glands, which will in turn prevent dry eye syndrome (click here to learn more). Click here to contact our offices and make an appointment today! 

We are dedicated to helping you find the best relief from your Blepharitis symptoms.
Get in touch with any of our offices today to make an appointment – we have 4 convenient Chicago locations!