Causes
The eye lids have tiny glands (Meibomian glands) which open up onto both the top and bottom lid margin which produce the oily layer of the tear film. This oil helps the tears spread over the eye and prevents evaporation of the tear film, whilst also moisturising and lubricating the underlying cornea.
As you get older, and particularly if you have dry skin or dandruff, these glands can block.
This disrupts the delicate tear film and causes dry eye symptoms, including irritation and grittiness.
Blepharitis is not a serious condition, and there is rarely any damage to the eyes, although it is often chronic (long-term) and treatment needs to be continued indefinitely.
Treatment and Aftercare
Treatment is needed to unblock the glands in the eyelids, and to replace the tears and lubricate the eyes if they are dry.
Methods of Treatment:
Hot Compress
In order to unblock the tiny glands, heat and a small amount of pressure are recommended.This is best achieved with the eye mask (heated in the microwave) and left in place for 10 minutes, followed by a gentle massage to encourage any blockages in the meibomian glands to clear.Alternatively a face cloth can be heated under hot water and then used as a hot compress over the lids for 10 minutes (you will need to continually reheat the face cloth).
Continue this treatment twice a day for 2 weeks, followed by lid cleaning.
Lid Cleaning
The best way to clean the lids is with a specialised lid cleaning wipe or solution, which contains formulated products, e.g Blepharosol, Blephawipes, Tea Tree Wipes, Tea Tree Gel. Rub along the eyelid rims to remove any crusts and debris. Continue this treatment twice a day for 2 weeks, and then once a day indefinitely.Ocular Lubricant
These eye drops assist the spread of your own tears and lubricate the eye. They can be used as regularly as needed. E.g. the Hycosan range.Antibiotic Treatment
Occasionally if the above treatment methods are not successful, then your GP may need to prescribe antibiotic eye drops/ointment or rarely even antibiotic tablets.Healthy Diet
A certain antioxidant, found especially in the skin of black grapes has been found to help with Blepharitis. Also, a diet low in saturated fats and high in fish oils can reduce symptoms of dry eye.