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Blepharitis

Q. After months of burning in my eyes and not being able to wear my contacts, a doctor finally told me that I have chronic bletharitis [blepharitis]. I know there isn't a cure but is there anything that can be done so that I can wear contacts again?

Blepharitis is a common condition that can be controlled but not cured. Blepharitis is caused by several things including Staphylococcal infection and Seborrhea (excessive secretion of lipid from glands). Blepharitis may also be associated with dandruff, eczema, allergy, drugs and Acne rosacea. Signs of Blepharitis include scales on the lashes, red swollen lids, burning and itchy eyes and discharge (e.g., serum-like or mucus like) from the eyes.

Staphylococcal blepharitis typically is an acute inflammation and occurs mostly in females. It is also associated with Dry eye. Seborrhea blepharitis is reflected by oily,greasy scales around the lashes and there may be excessive secretions or the glands may become plugged.

Treatment often includes the following:

Use a clean and warm (the warmer the better) cloth and hold over the closed eyes for 5 to 10 minutes. Resoak the cloth to keep it warm as needed.
Once the lids are warmed and softened, clean the lid margin and lashes with diluted baby shampoo twice a day. Continue to do this even if you don't feel that it is working. Sooner or later things will improve.
If applicable, apply an antibiotic ointment to the lid margin as indicated.
If you have dandruff, use an antidandruff shampoo...forever.
If you're a woman, or a man for that matter, try changing the brand of make-up that you use or, better yet, don't use make-up. Even if you don't use make-up near the eyes, the eyes can still become contaminated by indirect contact; for example, by your hands touching your face and then your eyes or by rubbing the make-up off onto a pillow and then into or near the eyes.
If you have eczema, ask your doctor about a steroid ointment to treat it.
If you are using drugs, ask your doctor if the drug(s) are associated with blepharitis. If necessary discontinue or change drugs.
Most importantly, practice proper hygiene. Wash you hands every time you use the bathroom, wash your face and shampoo daily.
If you use contacts, you must follow proper cleaning instructions for the contacts and be sure that your hands are clean before touching the contacts or your eyes.
Never rub your eyes with your fingers. If necessary, use the back of your hand or knuckle which is less likely to be contaminated.

Will you be able to wear contacts again? That is a good question for your eye doctor. Blepharitis waxes and wanes over the years and if you're able to control the outbreaks by following your doctor's recommendations you may be able to wear contacts again. Unfortunately, since blepharitis is associated with dry eye in some cases, be careful - blepharitis can lead to complications including corneal ulcers and conjunctivitis. See an eye doctor for diagnosis and possible treatment. Good luck

Q. Can blepharitis cause permanent eye problems and what are some of the causes of the problem?

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eye lid margins with crusting and scaling (sometimes oily scales) and causes the patient to have irritation, red lids, burning and itching of the eye lids and area. This may be a chronic, ongoing condition, more or less permanent, or may come and go. Blepharitis is often associated with conjunctivitis and superficial keratitis. Go to blepharitis and conjunctivitis for more information.