Inflamed Eyelids: What Causes Blepharitis?

Our eyelids do a lot for our eyes, protecting them and keeping them moisturized. All of that work can take its toll. If you’ve noticed that your eyelids seem irritated, they could be suffering from blepharitis, or eyelid inflammation. 

Fortunately, the team at our Benjamin Optical offices throughout New York City offers dedicated blepharitis treatment. If you’re dealing with swelling, redness, or some other eyelid or eyelash issue, we’re here to help.

First, though, we want to help you understand when you should come in for blepharitis treatment and what causes this condition in the first place. So let’s take a look.

The basics of blepharitis

At its simplest, blepharitis is inflammation in your eyelids. It comes in two different forms: anterior blepharitis, which affects the outside edge of your eyelid, or posterior blepharitis, which affects the part of your eyelid that touches your eye. 

Either way, blepharitis causes symptoms like:

• Red eyelids
• Swollen eyelids
• Dandruff-like flaking around your eyelashes
• Eyes that are crusted shut in the morning
• Eye discomfort
• Light sensitivity
• Itchy eyelids

In many cases, blepharitis develops because the oil glands in your eyelids get clogged. Beyond that, it can also develop because of:

• A bacterial, parasitic, or fungal infection
• Dry eyes
• Lice or mites on your eyelashes
• Dandruff (seborrheic dermatitis) 
• An allergic reaction, like to eye makeup or a medication

Clearly, a lot of different things can cause blepharitis. But we do have three pieces of good news. First, blepharitis usually doesn’t cause any lasting damage to your eyes. Secondly, it’s not contagious. And finally, we can help you find relief. 

Getting relief from your eyelid irritation

You probably care less about what’s causing your blepharitis than you do about finding relief from your symptoms. 

That process starts by diagnosing your blepharitis. Our Benjamin Optical team can do that through an eye exam at any of our offices. 

Then, we customize your treatment based on what’s causing your eyelid inflammation. If it’s an infection of some kind, for example, we’ll treat the underlying infection. Or if it’s dry eyes, we can help you find the most effective artificial tears for you. 

We might also set you up with a treatment that targets your symptoms directly, like steroid-based prescription eyedrops. 

Additionally, to help you find quick relief, we can help you establish a home care routine that might include washing your eyes with a gentle face wash and applying warm compresses. 

Your eyelids may be a small part of your body, but they do a lot for your ability to protect your eyes. For relief from any eyelid problem you’re experiencing, call any of our Benjamin Optical offices or book the earliest available appointment online.