Ophthalmic Procedures

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids often caused by oil glands, bacteria, dandruff and rosacea. Symptoms often include a foreign body or burning sensation, excessive tearing, itching, sensitivity to light, red and swollen eyelids and crusting of the eyelashes after sleeping.

Symptoms can be relived by using warm compresses and scrubbing the eyelid with baby shampoo or a specially formulated eye lid scrub.

Blepharitis is a condition that rarely permanently goes away and most patients must maintain an eyelid hygiene routine for life.

In cases of severe blepharitis, Dr. Schneider may prescribe a lubricating ointment, antibiotic or a steroid.

Clean eyelids by following these recommended steps:

• wash your hands, then dip a clean washcloth, cotton swab or gauze pad into your cleaning solution
• gently wipe across your lashes and lid margin
• rinse with cool water
• repeat the process for your other eye, but use a different washcloth, swab or pad