Hygiene key to preventing blepharitis

DEAR DOCTOR K: I had some itching and burning in my eye. My ophthalmologist said I have blepharitis. Can you tell me more about this condition?

DEAR READER: Blepharitis is an inflammation of the edges of the eyelids and eyelash hair follicles. It is a common and sometimes long-lasting condition. The good news is that it will not permanently damage your eyesight.

Blepharitis can be triggered by bacterial infections, though it is not contagious. You can also develop blepharitis if your eyelid glands make too much oil.

Blepharitis may cause any or all of the following symptoms:

• Mucus at the corner of the eyes when you wake up;

• Upper and lower eyelids that appear greasy;

• A crust that clings to the lashes;

• Itching;

• Burning;

• A feeling that something is in your eye when you blink;

• Red and swollen eyes;

• Missing lashes or lashes that turn inward;

• Irritation or breakdown of the skin along the edges of the eyelids;

• Excessive tears.

The key treatment for blepharitis is good eyelid hygiene – also the best way to prevent the condition in the first place.

Go through the following cleansing routine twice daily, in the morning and the evening. Once the condition is under control, you can do this cleaning less often. Resume twice-daily cleaning if your symptoms return. To clean your eyelids:

• Loosen crusts and oil debris by placing a clean washcloth dampened with warm water over closed lids for five minutes.

• Create a cleaning solution by mixing three drops of baby shampoo with two or three ounces of warm water. Moisten a washcloth or cotton swab with the cleaning solution. Rub the base of your eyelashes to remove loosened skin and crusts.

• Rinse the lids with warm water and pat gently with a clean, dry towel.

If the condition does not improve with cleaning alone, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment. Drops containing an anti-inflammatory drug might also help.