Blepharitis is the inflammation of the eyelids.
It is caused by bacteria which get easily trapped amongst the eyelashes causing inflammation and discomfort to the eye. Blepharitis is also associated with meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). MGD is when the meibomian glands which produce oil to lubricate our tears gets blocked and inflamed.
The symptoms include redness and itching, burning sensation, eye and eyelid irritation, dry eyes and even recurrent growth of chalazions (stye).
Long term effects of blepharitis include chronic irritation of eyelids, chronic dryness and redness of eyes, thickened and scalloped eyelid margins (below) and loss of eyelashes.
Treatment
Artificial tears may be prescribed to alleviate symptoms.
It is crucial to maintain good facial and eyelid hygiene to prevent your eyes from frequent infections and discomfort. Warm compresses and eyelid scrubs to remove oil and dirt which may be trapped between your eyelashes.
New Treatment: Probing of meibomian gland for Blepharitis
Patients who suffer from meibomian gland dysfunction/ blepharitis may find relief with a new method that probes the intraductal meibomian glands. By using disposable, stainless steel, sterile solid-wire probe cannulas, each gland is probed individually to relieve inflammatory symptoms of obstructive gland.
After the treatment, patients report to have decreased tenderness or soreness along the lid margin. Some may also feel improved lubrication, less friction or more comfort on blinking and less light sensitive.
