Eyelid irritation, or blepharitis, is a common disorder in which the eyelids become red, inflamed, and accumulate build-up around their edges. Fortunately, it is non-threatening to eyesight, although uncomfortable and sometimes unsightly.
What Causes Eyelid Inflamation?
There are two types of eyelid inflammation, with different causes for each:
Anterior blepharitis affects the outer part of your eyelid (where your eyelashes are located), and is most commonly caused by bacteria, from both hair and eyebrows.
Posterior blepharitis affects the inner part of the eyelid, and results from excess oil being produced by the glands near the eyelashes.
Symptoms of Eyelid Inflammation
Blepharitis must be diagnosed by an eye care professional through a careful examination of the eyes to determine the causes. The symptoms most commonly displayed include:
Treatment for Eyelid Inflammation
In many cases, if eyelid irritation can be taken care of at home, your optometrist may recommend eyelid scrubs and warm compresses. If your symptoms do not improve, your optometrist will evaluate the causes for the eyelid inflammation.