bg
Info centre > External & lid pathology
Blepharitis

Blepharitis: Eyelid Inflammation

Blepharitis is a common, chronic inflammation of the eyelid margins. While often uncomfortable and persistent, it is not contagious and rarely causes permanent vision loss. Because it is a long-term condition, symptoms tend to flare periodically—often feeling worse upon waking in the morning.

Note: Blepharitis cannot usually be "cured" in the traditional sense, but it can be highly effectively controlled with consistent daily eyelid hygiene.

Types of Blepharitis

Anterior

Anterior Blepharitis

Affects the eyelid skin and the base of the eyelashes. Commonly caused by staphylococcal bacteria or seborrhoeic dermatitis.

Posterior

Posterior Blepharitis

Affects the Meibomian glands along the eyelid margins. Often linked to Meibomian Gland Dysfunction (MGD), rosacea, or scalp conditions.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms usually affect both eyes and may include:

Symptoms
  • - Itchy, red, or swollen eyelid margins.
  • - Crusting or greasy debris (collarettes) on the eyelashes.
  • - Burning, gritty, or "foreign body" sensation.
  • - Sensitivity to light (photophobia).
  • - Contact lens intolerance.

Management is a marathon: Consistency in eyelid hygiene is the single most important factor in long-term symptom control.

Treatment and Management

1. The Core Hygiene Routine (Daily)

  • - Warm Compress: Apply a clean, warm flannel or eye mask to the closed lids for 5-10 minutes to liquefy oils.
  • - Eyelid Massage: Gently massage the eyelid margins to help express secretions from the glands.
  • - Eyelid Cleaning: Use a specialized lid wipe or recommended cleanser to remove crusting and bacteria from the lash base.

2. Medical Support

If hygiene alone isn't enough, your practitioner may prescribe:

  • - Topical Antibiotics: To address active bacterial infections.
  • - Oral Antibiotics: (e.g., Doxycycline) Used at low doses for their anti-inflammatory properties, especially in MGD and Rosacea.
  • - Artificial Tears: To soothe eyes if secondary dry eye is present.

Incidence and Impact

Blepharitis is incredibly common, with studies suggesting that 37% to 47% of patients seen in clinical eye care settings show signs of the condition. While the mean age of patients is around 50, staphylococcal types often affect younger individuals and are predominantly seen in females.

Clinical References

1. American Optometric Association. Blepharitis Overview. Available at: https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/blepharitis
2. NHS UK. Conditions: Blepharitis. Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/blepharitis/
3. StatPearls (2024). Blepharitis. Available at: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459305/
4. Stat Data: Approximately 700,000 clinical visits annually (USA) related to blepharitis symptoms.