Blepharitis Treatment
Blepharitis is an inflammation of the edges of the eyelids, which usually affects both eyes. This condition occurs when the oil glands near the eyelashes become clogged, which causes redness and irritation. This is a chronic condition, but fortunately, our team at Atlantic EyeCare in Virginia Beach can treat the symptoms.
What Are the Causes of Blepharitis?
Some issues can cause this condition.
- Dandruff of the eyebrows or scalp
- Clogged oil glands of the eyelids
- Infections
- Rosacea, which is a condition characterized by redness of the face.
- An allergic reaction to makeup, contact lens solution, or eye medication
- Eyelash lice or mites
- Dry eye syndrome
The Symptoms of Blepharitis
The symptoms of blepharitis are often worse in the morning and they can make your eyes very uncomfortable. The symptoms include:
- Watery eyes
- Red eyes
- A gritting feeling in the eyes
- Stinging or burning in the eyes
- Itchy eyelids
- Eyelid inflammation
- Red eyelids
- Flaking of the skin around the eyes
- Crusty eyelashes
- Sticking eyelashes
- Frequent blinking
- Blurry vision
- Sensitivity to light
Diagnosing Blepharitis
This condition can be diagnosed by our eye doctor. We will examine your eyes using a light and a magnifying instrument to get a good look at your eyelids. We will also use a swab to collect a sample of the oil or crust leaking from your eyes. We will analyze the sample to check for fungi, bacteria, or allergies.
Treating Blepharitis
Our eye doctor will suggest self-care measures, including washing your eyes regularly and warm wash compresses. If the self-care methods are not effective, we will use one of the following treatment options.
- Medication to fight the infection: If our eye doctor finds that a bacterial infection is causing the condition, we will prescribe antibiotics. These medications come in the form of eye drops, creams, and ointments. If topical antibiotics are not effective, we will prescribe an oral medication.
- Medication to control the inflammation: If you are not responding to antibiotics, our optometrist will prescribe steroids. We may also prescribe steroids in conjunction with the antibiotics.
- Restasis: Restasis is a medication that can help relieve many of the symptoms of this condition.
- Treating the underlying condition: If your case of blepharitis is due to an underlying medical condition such as Rosacea or dry eye syndrome, treating the condition will help with the blepharitis symptoms.
Blepharitis Treatment in Virginia Beach, VA
If you are experiencing the symptoms of blepharitis, schedule an appointment at Atlantic EyeCare in Virginia Beach. Our optometrist will create a treatment plan to help relieve your symptoms. Call us today at (757) 340-7070 to learn more or to schedule an appointment.
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