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Book an appointment if daily lid care does not help after a few weeks.
What is blepharitis?
In blepharitis the edges of the eyelids are irritated and inflamed. Often the small oil glands at the eyelid margin are blocked, making the tear film unstable. The condition is more common in people with rosacea, dandruff and oily skin.
Symptoms
- Red, swollen and itchy eyelid margins
- Flakes or crusts at the lashes, especially in the morning
- Grittiness, stinging and dry eyes
- Recurring styes
Daily lid care
- WarmthPlace a warm compress on your closed eyes for 5–10 minutes to soften the oil in the glands.
- MassageGently massage the eyelid margin towards the lashes to empty the glands.
- CleaningClean the eyelid margin with a cotton bud or an eyelid cleansing wipe.
Lid care often needs to continue for a long time, even when the symptoms have eased.
Treatment at the eye doctor
If lid care does not help, we can prescribe antibiotic ointment, a course of tablets or short-term anti-inflammatory drops. If a stye forms that does not go away, it can be removed with a minor procedure. Read about styes
This text is general information and does not replace an examination. If you are unsure about your symptoms, call us.