What Our Eye Doctor Wants You to Know about Blepharitis

Blepharitis, which is sometimes called glue eye, is a condition many people have, but few people get treated. This unsightly, uncomfortable condition can be kept under control, but you will usually need the help of your optometrist to do so. Here are some important facts about blepharitis from our eye doctor at Lock Family Eye Care in West Des Moines.

Blepharitis Is Inflammation of the Eyelids

Blepharitis occurs when the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes get clogged.  Clogged oil glands can collect bacteria that generate waste products, tissue-dissolving enzymes, and toxins that cause inflammation, irritation, and redness. The problem is worse if you have dry eye disease, rosacea, or seborrheic dermatitis.

Blepharitis Causes a Variety of Symptoms

The symptoms of blepharitis are worse in the morning. They include:

• • Eyelids that stick together
• • Eyelids that look greasy
• • Watery eyes
• • Gritty, stinging, and/or burning sensation in the eyes
• • Red, swollen, and/or itchy eyelids
• • Flaky skin around the eyes
• • Frequently blinking
• • Blurry vision that improves after the application of moisture or after blinking
• • Sensitivity to light

The symptoms of blepharitis tend to come and go. When blepharitis accompanies rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis, its symptoms get worse when the other disease symptoms get worse.

Self-Care for Dermatitis Can Go Wrong

There are several sensible home remedies for blepharitis. Many people apply moist, warm compresses to their eyes to melt clogged secretions.

This basically isn't a bad idea, but any warm, moist compress you apply to your eyes is best made with distilled water, not tap water.  It's important that the water used to make a compress is warm, not hold. You don't want to scald your eyelids. And it's important to understand that you are treating your eyelids, not your eyeballs.

Even if You Do Everything Right, You May Still Need Additional Care from an Optometrist

Blepharitis can lead to bacterial conjunctivitis or even viral infections of the eye. It's important to get red, itchy, or achy eyes checked out by your eye doctor in order that you get the timely treatment you need. Blepharitis seldom threatens sight, but it can cause serious problems with the position of your eyelids that are uncomfortable and cosmetically unacceptable.

Let Dr. Lock Manage Your Blepharitis

Sometimes blepharitis goes away with just a little medical help. Schedule your appointment today. Request your appointment online or call us at 515-267-1312. The offices of Lock Family Eye Care are located at 101 Jordan Creek Pkwy # 12190, West Des Moines, IA 50266.