Blepharitis

Blepharitis is a condition where the rims of the eyelids become inflamed (red and swollen) which can result in symptoms such as:

• burning, soreness, or stinging in the eyes
• crusty eyelashes
• itchy eyelids

Blepharitis can be caused by a bacterial infection, or it can be a complication of a skin condition such as:

• seborrhoeic dermatitis - a skin condition that causes an itchy rash on the skin and scalp (when seborrhoeic dermatitis affects the scalp it is called dandruff)
• rosacea - a skin condition that causes the face to appear red and blotchy

It is not possible to catch blepharitis from someone else who has the condition.

How common is blepharitis?

It is estimated that blepharitis is responsible for 1 in 20 eye problems that are reported to GPs. The condition is more common in people who are over 50 years of age, although it can develop at any age.

In cases where blepharitis is caused by the staphylococcus bacteria, up to half of those affected also have dry eye syndrome (a condition where the eyes do not produce enough tears, or dry out too quickly).

See Blepharitis - complications for more information about dry eye syndrome in relation to blepharitis.

Outlook

Blepharitis is a chronic (long-term) condition, which means that once it develops it can cause  repeated episodes. There is no cure for blepharitis, but establishing a daily eye-cleaning routine can help to control the symptoms. This will need to be continued indefinitely. More severe cases of blepharitis may require antibiotics.

Blepharitis is not usually serious. The most common complication is being unable to wear contact lenses while experiencing symptoms. Serious complications, such as sight loss, are rare, particularly if the recommended advice is followed.

Inflammation
Inflammation is the body's response to infection, irritation or injury, which causes redness, swelling, pain and sometimes a feeling of heat in the affected area.

Bacteria
Bacteria are tiny, single-celled organisms that live in the body. Some can cause illness and disease and some are good for you.

Antibiotics
Antibiotics are medicines that can be used to treat infections caused by micro-organisms, usually bacteria or fungi.