What causes my eyelids to
become red and itchy and what can be done about it?
This condition called Blepharitis,
frequently occurs in people who have a tendency towards oily skin, dandruff,
dry eyes, and rosacea. Eyelid margin disease is a common and
persistent inflammation of the eyelids.
Symptoms include eye and eyelid irritation, redness, itchiness,
stinging, burning, and the development of styes
(inflammation of a hair follicle) and/or chalazions
(inflammation of an oil gland).
The common bacteria on our
skin thrive at the base of the eyelashes causing dandruff-like scales and
“scruff” particles along the lashes and eyelid margin. Inflammation and dysfunction of the miebomian oil glands, the oil glands that line the eyelids,
is also associated with Blepharitis.
Since Blepharitis
is a chronic condition, it can be controlled but not cured. Your Ophthalmologist will want to see you to
determine the best treatment for you.
Treatment may include warm compresses over closed eyelids to help loosen
the scales and debris. This will also
help with the oil secretions. The
eyelids should then be gently scrubbed using lint-free pads soaked in a
commercial eyelid cleanser.
Additionally, your ophthalmologist may prescribe an antibiotic ointment,
to be applied to the base of the eyelashes. Artificial tears or mild steroid
drops may be prescribed to relieve dry eyes or
inflammation. In some cases, excessive
oil gland dysfunction or ocular rosacea may be
treated with oral antibiotics such as tetracycline or doxycycline. Lastly, washing your hair, scalp and eyebrows
with antibacterial shampoo can also help control this chronic condition.
James W. Bryan, M.D.
F.A.C.S.
Diplomate, American Board of Ophthalmology
Member, South Bay Independent
Physicians Medical Group, Inc.