Infected Eyelid Treatments
Infected Eyelid Treatment & Surgery
Overview
Blepharitis, sometimes called granulated eyelids, is an infection of the eyelids. It is more common in people over 40, but it can develop at any age.
Left untreated, blepharitis can lead to the loss of eyelashes, red, inflamed eyelids, and eventually a blockage of the oil glands along the eyelid margins (which can lead to styes or chalazia). In severe cases, the cornea may also become inflamed, creating vision issues.
Unfortunately, Blepharitis is usually a chronic condition requiring ongoing treatments, as most afflicted experience repeated episodes separated by periods without symptoms.
Symptoms & Causes
Symptoms of blepharitis can include:
- Scaly skin flakes along the eyelid margins
- Red, swollen, itchy eyelids
- Gritty, burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
- Tiny pimples on the eyelid edges
- Loss of eyelashes
- Frequent sty formation
- Crusted eyelashes upon awakening
- Matter in the corners of the eyes on awakening
- Eyelids appear greasy
- Eyelids stick together
- Eyelashes grow abnormally (misdirected eyelashes)
- Itchy, burning, red, watery eyes
- More frequent blinking
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
Blepharitis can be caused by a number of things including:
- Bacterial infection (often staphylococcal)
- Skin conditions (seborrhoeic dermatitis or rosacea)
- Excess oil produced by the glands in the eyelid
- Allergic reactions
- Poor eyelid hygiene
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Infected Eyelid Treatments
In addition to eliminating soreness and redness, treatments help prevent potential infections and cornea scarring.
Cleansing Treatments
Blepharitis is not usually curable, but massaging and cleaning the eyelids and eyelashes daily and applying warm compresses 2-3 times a day can help control the symptoms.
Premedicated eyelid scrub pads (Ocusoft) usually work best. The general recommendation would be to clean the eyelids every night for 2 weeks straight, then every other night after that. And, if symptoms return, immediately go back to cleaning and massaging daily.
Warm compresses and massage are even more important when pimples or bumps have formed on the eyelids. To do this, hold a warm washcloth against the eyelid until it cools, repeating this step several times daily.
Medication Treatments
In certain cases, antibiotic eye drops or ointment will be prescribed to supplement the daily cleansing regimen. More severe cases may require antibiotics taken orally.
Important To Remember
Topical and oral medications may help control the symptoms of blepharitis, but they are not sufficient by themselves. Ongoing cleaning, massaging, and compresses are essential in managing symptoms.
If medication makes the condition worse or causes eyelid swelling, stop the medication immediately and contact your doctor.
To learn more or to
schedule a consultation, please call (512) 528-1144 or contact us.