Blepharitis is a chronic inflammation of the eyelids that commonly affects the base of the eyelashes and the meibomian glands—tiny oil-producing glands that line the eyelids. This condition is one of the leading causes of eye irritation and discomfort, and it can also contribute to evaporative dry eye by disrupting the tear film.
Symptoms of Blepharitis
Blepharitis often develops gradually and may be mistaken for simple eye irritation. Common signs and symptoms include:
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Red, swollen, or itchy eyelids
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Crusting or dandruff-like flakes at the base of the lashes
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A gritty, burning, or stinging sensation
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Blurry vision due to an unstable tear film
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Sensitivity to light or increased tearing
These symptoms may come and go, but without proper management, blepharitis tends to persist.
Causes of Blepharitis
Blepharitis can result from a combination of factors, including:
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Dysfunction of the meibomian (oil) glands
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Bacterial overgrowth on the eyelid margins
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Skin conditions such as rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis
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Mite infestations (Demodex) affecting the lashes
Because it is often associated with multiple causes, treating blepharitis usually requires a comprehensive management plan.
At-Home Care for Blepharitis
For many patients, daily eyelid hygiene plays a key role in reducing symptoms and flare-ups:
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Warm Compresses: Applying gentle heat to the eyelids helps soften clogged oils.
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Eyelid Scrubs: Cleaning the lash line with diluted baby shampoo or commercial lid wipes removes bacteria and debris.
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Omega-3 Supplements: These may help reduce inflammation and improve meibomian gland function.
In-Office Treatments
For more persistent or severe cases, professional treatments are highly effective. At Belmont Eye Center, Dr. Sandra Belmont offers a variety of painless, in-office procedures with no downtime, including:
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Manual Expression of Meibomian Glands: Gently clearing blocked oil glands to restore healthy tear production.
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Radiofrequency and Thermal Pulsation Therapy: Using controlled heat to melt and express clogged oils.
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Eyelid Exfoliation: Removing debris and biofilm buildup at the lash line to improve eyelid health.
Why Treatment Matters
Beyond discomfort, untreated blepharitis can lead to chronic dry eye disease, recurrent styes, and permanent changes to the eyelids and eyelashes. Consistent treatment not only improves comfort but also protects long-term vision and eye health.
Relief for Irritated Eyes
If you are experiencing red, irritated, or crusty eyelids, you may be suffering from blepharitis. At Belmont Eye Center, we provide advanced treatments to restore eyelid health and improve tear film quality.
Schedule your comprehensive eye evaluation today to find lasting relief from blepharitis.
