BlepharitisWhat is Blepharitis?
Blepharitis is an inflammation of the lid margin (where the eyelashes grow out from the eyelids). Blepharitis is a chronic recurring disease that usually affects the upper and lower eyelids of both eyes. It is not a threat to your sight. Blepharitis can be aggravated by smoky, dry or dusty atmospheres.
What are the symptoms?
Crusting around the eye lashes Red rimmed eyes Burning,
itching sensations or dry feeling Sometimes watering of the eyes
You may not have all of these symptoms at the same time.
What will help?
It is important to keep your eyelids clean. Correct eyelid hygiene can help a lot. Carry out the following procedures at least twice day.
- Wash your hands
- Warm compresses (this will help soften the crusting
around the eye lashes and the secretions inside the
eyelid glands).
- Boil water and allow to cool (so that it will be hot but will not scald).
- Dip cotton wool in the water, squeeze out the excess.
- Place the cotton wool on your eye lids, with eyes closed, and leave in place until the compresses cool.
- Repeat, as the compresses cool down, for about 5 minutes.
Lid hygiene
- Prepare a fresh solution made up of I teaspoon of baby shampoo to 4 teaspoons of cooled boiled water.
- Pull your upper eyelid to lift the lid away from the eye.
- Then using a clean finger or cotton bud dipped in the solution, rub along where your eyelashes grow.
- Never allow your finger or the cotton bud to touch your eye.
- Repeat instructions 3 and 4 on the lower eyelid.
- Always rinse your eyelids thoroughly and dry gently.
If you have been prescribed ointment then massage your lids by:
- Putting a small amount of the prescribed ointment on to your index finger and firmly massage along the lid where the lashes grow, from the inner to the outer part of the upper and lower eye lid, on both eyes.
- This is usually a one week course of treatment with Chloramphenicol ointment.
You may also be prescribed: Tablets - it is important to take them as prescribed and finish the course. Lubricants to replace the natural tears of your eye.