Blepharitis is an eye condition that is associated with inflammation of the eyelid. Blepharitis attacks the eyelids' edges and the base of the skin around the eyelashes. If you suspect you are suffering from blepharitis, contact us at Maple Ridge Eye Care for professional eye care. At our clinic, we take great pride in offering our patients outstanding eye and vision care.
What is blepharitis?
Blepharitis is a common condition in which the edges of the eyelids become irritated. Such irritation leads to redness and swelling. The skin around the base of the eyelashes is usually most affected by blepharitis.
What are the common symptoms?
Itchy, sore, and red eyelids are the most common symptoms of blepharitis. Irritated eyelids typically stick together to form greasy eyelids that ultimately turn into crust.
You may feel a burning sensation when suffering from blepharitis. There may also be a sensitivity to light, commonly referred to as photophobia, that sometimes leads those suffering from the condition to resist sunlight or wear sunglasses with strong resistance to UV rays.
Severe cases of blepharitis could lead to the loss of eyelashes or abnormal growth. Those with severe cases of blepharitis may also experience swollen eyelid margins.
How is blepharitis diagnosed?
An optometrist typically diagnoses blepharitis. Our eye doctors will likely use a microscope to examine the eyelids in search of crusting and debris.
What causes blepharitis?
Blepharitis is commonly caused by excessive buildup of bacteria (staphylococcus bacteria) on the eyelid or the eyelid negatively reacting to its presence. Another cause of blepharitis is seborrheic dermatitis, which is a skin condition that causes oiliness and flaking. Seborrheic dermatitis can irritate the eyelids to the degree of causing the Meibomian glands to block, which ultimately leads to blepharitis.
How is blepharitis treated?
Our Maple Ridge clinic can treat blepharitis with regular lid hygiene, antibiotic creams and ointments to prevent infection, and Blephex.
Contact Us for Eye Care from Our Optometrists in Maple Ridge
There is no cure for blepharitis. An optometrist can, however, help you prevent frequent inflammation. Our team at Maple Ridge Eye Care is committed to providing patients the eye care they need to function throughout daily life. Call our optometry department in Maple Ridge today to schedule an eye exam if you have symptoms of blepharitis.