Do you have redness and swelling around your eyelids? Blepharitis is a common eye condition caused by bacteria and oil buildup that’s highly treatable. To have your symptoms diagnosed by a specialist, visit the Eye Health Center of Troy. Dr. Pamela Kaw and her team provide care for adults and children in Troy, New York, with blepharitis and other eye-related conditions. Patients travel from around the area to see the doctors at Eye Health Center of Troy. Patients even drive from Albany and Tri City! To request an appointment, call or book one online today.
Blepharitis Q & A
What is blepharitis?
Blepharitis is an eye condition characterized by eyelid inflammation. The part of the eye most affected by blepharitis is the baseline of the lash. It can affect just one or both eyes, and it’s common among people who have very oily skin or very dry eyes.
What are the symptoms of blepharitis?
The symptoms of blepharitis are different for each person, but the most common signs of the condition are:
-Watery eyes
-Redness
-Crusted eyelashes
-Sticky eyelids
-Loss of eyelashes
Blepharitis can also lead to swelling, frequent blinking, or abnormal eyelash growth. The symptoms may mimic those associated with allergies. Left untreated, scarring can occur on the eyelids, or they may turn inward or outward. While eye irritation is normal, especially if you wear makeup or have allergies, if your symptoms aren’t improving and you’re experiencing vision problems or pain, contact the Eye Health Center of Troy for a full eye exam.
What causes blepharitis?
Blepharitis can develop for a number of reasons. The most common causes include:
-Bacterial infection: due to trapped dirt, grease, or makeup
-Seborrheic dermatitis: itchy, flaky skin on the scalp or eyebrows
-Allergic reactions: from makeup, eye medication, or contact lens solution
In some cases, blepharitis develops if you have eyelash mites or lice, or if you have rosacea.
How is blepharitis treated?
There are several treatments available for blepharitis, and Dr. Kaw and her team can diagnose the cause of your condition to determine the best treatment option. In general, treatment for blepharitis involves eyelid scrubs, which help to remove the buildup of bacteria from your eyelids through a cleaning agent and exfoliation.
Dr. Kaw and her team might also recommend thermal pulsation treatment to melt and remove bacteria that’s trapped in your oil glands, and to help your eye’s natural oils to flow more freely. In other cases, you might need medicated eye drops or ointments to kill bacteria in the eyelids or around the eyes.
To learn more about blepharitis treatment, contact the Eye Health Center of Troy by calling or booking an appointment online.