Blepharitis Specialist
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Pine Vision Care
Optometrists & LASIK Consultation located in Philadelphia, PA & Newtown Square, PA
Blepharitis is a condition that causes red, irritated, itchy, and dry eyes. According to The American Academy of Ophthalmology®, blepharitis is one of the most frequently occurring ocular issues, with at least some signs of it found in around 37-47% of eye care patients. At Pine Vision Care in Philadelphia, our doctors expertly perform comprehensive eye exams to determine what type of blepharitis you’re dealing with, and what the best treatment path for you is. Book your appointment anytime using the online tool, or call the office to get blepharitis help now.
Blepharitis Q & A
What is blepharitis?
Blepharitis is an ocular condition that causes your eyelids to grow inflamed. There are two types of blepharitis, anterior and posterior.
Anterior blepharitis
In anterior blepharitis, the eyelid inflammation occurs at your lash roots.
Posterior blepharitis
In posterior blepharitis, the inflammation occurs within your inner eyelids and in the Meibomian glands just below your bottom eyelashes. These glands help make the oily component of your tear film.
Mixed blepharitis occurs when you have characteristics of both anterior and posterior blepharitis.
What are the signs of blepharitis?
Eyelid irritation is the most common sign of blepharitis. In addition to having red eyelids, you may also experience the following symptoms:
- Swollen eyelids
- Dry eyes
- Crusty buildup on your lashes
- Lashes that feel glued shut when you wake up
- Light sensitivity
- Burning eyes
- Itchy eyes
Sometimes these symptoms may mean that it's uncomfortable or even impossible to wear your contact lenses as usual. If you're suffering from blepharitis, switch to eyeglasses until you get treatment.
What causes blepharitis?
Anterior blepharitis often happens due to staphylococcus bacteria on the skin. Although staphylococcus bacteria is normally harmless, in some situations it causes anterior blepharitis for unknown reasons.
The other common cause of anterior blepharitis is seborrhoeic dermatitis, better known as dandruff. Many dandruff sufferers have skin flakes on both their scalp and brows. These flakes can accumulate to irritate your lids and lead to blepharitis.
Posterior blepharitis is related to Meibomian gland issues and is typically caused by irregular oil production. Posterior blepharitis can also occur due to Meibomian gland blockage.
How is blepharitis treated?
Treatment for blepharitis depends on which type you're dealing with. Treatment for anterior blepharitis usually includes moist heat therapy (warm compresses) and prescription eye drops.
Treatment for posterior blepharitis usually includes heat therapy, blinking exercises to encourage healthy Meibomian gland function, and omega-3 supplements to help reduce inflammation and encourage better Meibomian gland function.
Our doctors treat mixed blepharitis based on your symptoms and needs. For all kinds of blepharitis, you need to keep your eyelids clean, so we may recommend special rinses or gentle scrubs to help with this.
Don't let blepharitis symptoms get worse, reach out for help today. Book your appointment at Pine Vision Care through the online tool or by phone now.
