Blepharitis
The eyelids are skin folds that cover the upper and lower end of eyes and keep them protected. There are also lashes on the edge of your eyelids with short, curved hair follicles. Oil glands are located in these follicles. Certain disorders of the eyelids can be caused by clogged or irritated oil glands. Blepharitis, or inflammation of the eyelids, is one of these disorders. (1)
The eyelid margins of both eyes are typically affected by blepharitis. Symptoms may include swollen, redness, or a burning or sore feeling. The base of your eyelashes may also have flakes or oily particles (crusts). People with oily skin, dandruff, or rosacea are more likely to suffer from blepharitis.
Blepharitis is caused by clogged oil glands near the base of the eyelashes that cause irritation and redness. Blepharitis can be caused by several diseases and conditions. If you seek the advice of an eye care professional, you might be able to manage most cases yourself, even though it’s a chronic (ongoing) condition. It is difficult to treat blepharitis, but it’s not contagious and usually doesn’t cause permanent damage to your vision.
Blepharitis affects the eyelids in two ways:
- Anterior eyelid blepharitis – Your eyelashes are located on the outside of your eye, which is where anterior eye inflammation occurs. Inflammation of your anterior eyelids can be caused by dandruff on your eyebrows or allergies in your eyes.
- Posterior eyelid blepharitis – The inner edge of your eyelids is affected by this type of blepharitis. This type of inflammation and swelling is usually caused by an oil gland malfunctioning behind your eyelashes.