Blepharitis
Blepharitis is inflammation along the eyelid margins that causes burning, grittiness, crusting and sometimes unstable tears or dry-eye symptoms.
Key takeaways
- Anterior disease affects the lash bases, while posterior blepharitis involves blocked or inflamed meibomian oil glands.
- Consistent warm compresses and gentle lid cleaning control build-up better than occasional intensive cleaning.
- Antibiotic or anti-inflammatory treatment has selected roles and should not replace assessment of persistent one-sided or painful disease.
The listings below do not establish the cause of eyelid symptoms; eye examination should guide prescription drops or ointments.
Building an eyelid routine
A warm compress loosens thickened oil, followed by gentle massage and cleaning along closed lid margins with a purpose-made product or clinician-recommended method. Scrubbing the eye surface or using harsh detergents can worsen irritation. Artificial tears may help associated dryness.
When medicine is considered
Topical antibiotic may be used for prominent anterior bacterial features, while short anti-inflammatory courses require eye supervision because corticosteroids can raise eye pressure or worsen infection. Recurrent styes, rosacea and significant dry eye may need additional management.
When to seek urgent care
Arrange urgent eye assessment for severe pain, light sensitivity, reduced or distorted vision, marked one-sided swelling, fever, restricted eye movement or symptoms after contact-lens use.