Types of Blepharitis

Types of Blepharitis:

Blepharitis is a common, chronic inflammation of the eyelids, typically affecting the area where eyelashes grow. It can be caused by bacteria, skin conditions, or gland dysfunction and often leads to irritation, redness, and crusty eyelids.

Types of Blepharitis

1. Anterior Blepharitis – Affects the outside front of the eyelid (where eyelashes attach).
   • Staphylococcal: Caused by bacteria (Staphylococcus).
   • Seborrheic: Linked to dandruff (scaly, oily skin).
2. Posterior Blepharitis (Meibomian Gland Dysfunction – MGD) – Affects the inner eyelid (oil glands).
   • Due to clogged meibomian glands, leading to poor oil secretion.

Causes & Risk Factors

• Bacterial overgrowth (Staphylococcus)
• Seborrheic dermatitis (scalp dandruff)
• Rosacea (facial skin condition)
• Dry eyes or oily skin
• Eyelash mites (Demodex)
• Allergies (cosmetics, contact lens solutions)
• Hormonal changes

Symptoms

• Red, swollen eyelids
• Itchy, burning, or gritty sensation
• Crusty debris at eyelash bases (worse in the morning)
• Watery or dry eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurred vision (if oil glands are blocked)
• Frequent styes or chalazia

Diagnosis

An eye doctor (ophthalmologist/optometrist) examines:

• Eyelid appearance
• Oil gland function
• Skin/scalp conditions
• Sometimes, eyelash samples (for mites)

Treatment & Management

Since blepharitis is often chronic, management focuses on daily eyelid hygiene:

1. Eyelid Hygiene (Most Important!)

• Warm Compresses: Apply a warm washcloth (or microwaveable mask) for 5–10 minutes to loosen crusts and unclog glands.
• Lid Scrubs: Gently clean lids with diluted baby shampoo or commercial eyelid wipes (e.g., Ocusoft, Systane).
• Massage: After warming, gently massage lids to express oil from glands.

2. Medical Treatments

• Antibiotics: Ointments (erythromycin, bacitracin) or oral (doxycycline for MGD).
• Steroid Drops/Ointments: Short-term use for inflammation (e.g., loteprednol).
• Artificial Tears: For dry eye relief.
• Tea Tree Oil: For Demodex mites (diluted).
• Immunomodulators (e.g., cyclosporine drops) for severe cases.

3. Lifestyle & Home Care

• Avoid eye makeup during flare-ups.
• Replace mascara/eyeliner every 3 months.
• Treat underlying conditions (rosacea, dandruff).
• Omega-3 supplements (may improve oil gland function).

Complications

• Chronic dry eye
• Styes/chalazia (eyelid bumps)
• Corneal irritation (from misdirected lashes)
• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

Prevention

• Daily lid hygiene (even when asymptomatic).
• Avoid rubbing eyes.
• Control dandruff with medicated shampoos.

When to See a Doctor

• Severe pain, vision changes, or no improvement with home care.
• Frequent styes or corneal symptoms.

Prognosis

Blepharitis is manageable but rarely fully curable. Consistent eyelid care can keep symptoms under control.