Eyelid Problems (Blepharitis)

Topic Overview

One of the most common eye problems in older adults is a skin condition called blepharitisClick here to see an illustration.. It is often caused by bacteria (usually staphylococcus) or related to a long-term (chronic) skin condition, such as dandruff, skin allergies, or eczema. If you have blepharitis, you are more likely to get styes.

Symptoms

Symptoms of blepharitis include redness, irritation, itchiness, and scaliness at the edges of the eyelids. The scales may be dry or greasy. Also, eyelashes may fall out.

Exams and Tests

To diagnose this condition, the doctor will examine your eye, eyelid, and eyelashes with an instrument called an ophthalmoscope.

Treatment Overview

Blepharitis often requires treatment. You may need to take antibiotics for some types of blepharitis. Call your doctor if:

  • Your eye is painful or there is swelling or redness extending beyond the lid margins.
  • The problem is not improving after 1 week of home treatment.

Home Treatment

Regular hygiene can help you avoid blepharitis and prevent recurrences. Wash your eyelids, eyebrows, and hair daily with baby shampoo.

To wash your eyelids, put a few drops of shampoo in a cup of water, and dip a cotton ball, cotton swab, or soft washcloth in the solution. With your eyes closed, gently wipe each eyelid about 10 times horizontally away from your nose, across the lashes. Rinse well with clear water before opening your eyes.

Or, if you take a shower, let warm water from the showerhead run over your closed eyes for a minute. Then put a few drops of shampoo on a washcloth and use it to scrub the lashes similar to the cotton ball method. Rinse the shampoo away.

Other Places To Get Help

Organizations

EyeSmart
P.O. Box 7424
San Francisco, CA  94120-7424
Phone: (415) 447-0213
Fax: (415) 561-8533
Email: eyesmart@aao.org
Web Address: www.geteyesmart.org
 

EyeSmart is a public information Web site provided by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. It provides general information and brochures on eye conditions and diseases and low-vision resources and services.


National Eye Institute, National Institutes of Health
Information Office
31 Center Drive MSC 2510
Bethesda, MD  20892-2510
Phone: (301) 496-5248
Email: 2020@nei.nih.gov
Web Address: www.nei.nih.gov
 

As part of the U.S. National Institutes of Health, the National Eye Institute provides information on eye diseases and vision research. Publications are available to the public at no charge. The Web site includes links to various information resources.


Related Information

References

Other Works Consulted

  • American Academy of Ophthalmology (2008). Blepharitis. Preferred Practice Patterns. San Francisco: American Academy of Ophthalmology. Available online: http://one.aao.org/CE/PracticeGuidelines/PPP_Content.aspx?cid=080ac46b-ea4d-4556-893a-2a63ba87ffcd.

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical ReviewerSarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Specialist Medical ReviewerChristopher J. Rudnisky, MD, MPH, FRCSC - Ophthalmology
Last RevisedMarch 8, 2011
By: Healthwise StaffLast Revised: March 8, 2011
Medical Review: Sarah Marshall, MD - Family Medicine
Christopher J. Rudnisky, MD, MPH, FRCSC - Ophthalmology

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