Eyelid inflammation (blepharitis)

Overview

Blocked oil glands and bacteria on the lids cause it.

It often comes back, so care is ongoing.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Red, crusty, or itchy eyelids
• Crusty, red, or itchy eyelid edges

Less common

• Gritty eyes
• Lashes stuck together in the morning

Look up a symptom: Crusty, red, or itchy eyelid edges · Dry, gritty, or burning eyes · Red eye or eye discharge · Swollen or puffy eyelid or eye

When to get medical care

Causes

Oil gland problems, bacteria, skin conditions.

Does it spread or run in families?

• It isn't contagious. You can't catch it from someone else.

Who is more likely to get it

• Rosacea
• Dandruff

Possible complications

• Stye
• Dry eye

Diagnosis

An eye exam finds it.

The exam

Looking at lids and lashes.

Treatment

Clean your lids daily.

Self-care

• Use a warm compress for 5 to 10 minutes
• Gently clean lash lines with diluted baby shampoo or lid wipes
• Use artificial tears
• Skip eye makeup during flares

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

Prevention

To prevent flares:

• Daily lid care

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to an ophthalmologist (eye doctor and surgeon) or an optometrist.

Back to school, work, or sports

• Most people keep up normal school and work. Rest when you need to.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Controllable.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Eyelid inflammation (blepharitis)