Granulated Eyelids Or Blepharitis
February 2, 2009
This is an inflammation of the eyelids, mainly occurring at the lid margins. It is a common skin disorder and it can be the result of a small bacterial infection. Although it is not threatening to the eyesight, it can cause problems by recurring.
What is this condition?
The outer layer of the eyelid is mainly skin whereas on the inside it is mainly moist tissue. This is the area most affected by blepharitis. The glands in the eyelids become inflamed. This impairs the even spreading of tears and hence, results in eyes becoming sore.
There are different types of blepharitis. Seborrheic blepharitis is mainly the result of scalp dandruff or just a part of the disease seborrhoea. Staph blepharitis is more severe and infectious. Bacteria is the reason for it. Anterior blepharitis, posterior blepharitis and herpex simplex blepharitis are some other types of this condition.
What causes this condition?
Generally, bacteria is to blame for this condition. Acne rosacea, Staphylococcus bacteria, dry eyes, scalp dandruff, allergies, infections and diabetes are possible causes of blepharitis.
Poor hygiene, overcrowding and age are also probable risk factors.
What symptoms should I look out for?
The disease is of the eyes and therefore, you might have tearing, burning, eye irritation, sensation of foreign body, dryness, crusty debris and/or red eyelid margins.
You can also develop photophobia so that you will dislike or avoid bright light or may become sensitive to bright light.
Other symptoms include frothy tears, blurred vision, warm and swollen eyelids, matted eyelashes, eyelids glued shut or even loss of eyelashes.
How can it be treated?
Hot compresses work well. Holding a clean piece of flannel that is soaked in warm water against closed eyelids for 5 minutes, will melt the oil in blocked glands and give you some relief.
You can use a finger or cotton bud to massage the skin of the lids. This will also help to unblock the glands.
A very important aspect of treating blepharitis is to keep the eyelids clean. To clean, start with placing a cleaned washcloth, which is dampened with comfortably warm water, over your closed lids for at least five minutes. This will loosen the crusts and oil debris.
Now mix three drops of baby shampoo with 2-3 ounces of warm water or mix a quarter teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate with a cup of cooled boiled water. Use this to remove the loosened skin and crusts with a cotton swab or washcloth.
Rinse the lids clean with warm water and pat dry with a towel.
Apart from keeping the eyelids clean, you might have to take antibiotic pills, ointment or steroid eye drops, which the doctor may prescribe.
How can I protect myself against this condition?
You should keep your hands clean, dry and away from your eyes. If you have infection, then avoid wearing eye makeup. You should consult your doctor before using contact lenses. Keep your eyes protected against dust and other irritants.


























