What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is when the edges of your eyelids are inflamed. This means they become red, swollen and irritated. It often affects both eyes and can affect different parts on the eyelids.

Blepharitis can affect children and adults of any age. It does not cause vision loss.

What are the symptoms of blepharitis?

The most common symptoms of blepharitis are redness and swelling on the edges of your eyelids. Other symptoms include:

• feeling like something is in your eye
• crusty or sticky eyelashes
• dry, itchy or burning eyes and eyelids
• thick scales or sores at the edges of your eyelid
• blurred vision
• watery or frothy eye discharge

You may also feel the need to blink frequently or have sensitivity to light.

What causes blepharitis?

The most common cause of blepharitis is a bacterial infection affecting the base of your eyelashes or the glands in your eyelids.

Other causes include:

• viral infections — such as herpes simplex
• allergies — for example to pollen, eye makeup or eye drops
• skin problems — such as dermatitis, dandruff or rosacea (skin redness)
• blocked oil glands at the edge of the eyelids — this can be caused by seborrheic dermatitis or rosacea

When should I see my doctor?

See your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after a few days of self-care.

Your doctor may take a swab from your eyelid so they can identify the cause of your symptoms and suggest an effective treatment.

How is blepharitis diagnosed?

You doctor will ask about your symptoms and check your eyes. Your doctor may refer you to an eye specialist known as an ophthalmologist.

How is blepharitis treated?

Your doctor may prescribe medicine to treat blepharitis. There are also things you can do at home to relieve your symptoms.

Medicines

If your doctor suspects an infection, they may prescribe medicines such as:

• antibiotics — ointments or tablets for bacterial blepharitis
• antiviral medicines — for viral blepharitis
• antihistamines — for allergies
• antiparasitic medicine — to kill parasites

They may also recommend lubricating ointments to treat dry eyes, and occasionally corticosteroid ointments, if other medicines don't work.

Self care

Eye hygiene is important. To treat blepharitis at home you can:

• Massage your eyelid towards your nose to help release oil from the glands.
• Clean your eyelids.
• Use a cool compress — for allergic blepharitis.
• Use a warm compress — for all other types of blepharitis.

To clean your eyes:

• Use warm water or diluted baby shampoo. Mix 1 part shampoo with 10 parts water.
• Dip a cloth or cotton bud in this liquid and gently wipe along your eyelid — including the edges of your eyelids and your eyelashes.

You can also ask your pharmacist or doctor about eyelid cleaners.

To apply a warm or cold compress:

• Dip a clean face cloth into very warm or cold water.
• Squeeze the cloth until its damp and hold against your eye for over 3 minutes.

You can do this once or twice a day.

Always talk to your doctor to find the best treatment plan for you.

Can blepharitis be prevented?

Taking steps to prevent blepharitis can help keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.

• Clean your eyelids regularly and avoid touching your eyes.
• Treat skin problems such as dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis.
• Avoid allergens that can trigger your symptoms, such as certain eye drops, eye makeup or pollen.
• Use skin care and makeup products that do not irritate your skin or eyes.
• Follow your optometrist's instructions for inserting, wearing and storing your contact lenses.

What are the complications of blepharitis?

Blepharitis can cause other conditions such as:

• stye
• chalazion
• dry eye syndrome
• conjunctivitis

Your doctor can provide advice and treatment for these conditions.

Resources and support

Visit The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists for more information on eye conditions such as blepharitis.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.