Blepharitis

Blepharitis is long-term inflammation of the eyelids that causes irritation, redness, and crusting, and is a common reason for gritty or blurred vision.

Common symptoms

Red and itchy eyelid margins, flaky crusts around the lashes, burning or gritty eyes, watering, temporary blurred vision that improves with blinking, and sensitivity to light.

Description

Blepharitis is a chronic condition affecting the edges of the eyelids, where the eyelashes grow. It is often linked to blocked oil glands in the eyelids, skin conditions such as rosacea or seborrhoeic dermatitis, or tiny mites that live on the lashes.

Although blepharitis rarely causes lasting damage to vision, it can be uncomfortable and may contribute to dry eye, styes, chalazions, and unstable vision when reading or using screens. Flare-ups can come and go, and the condition is usually long term rather than curable.

Management is based on a daily routine of warm compresses, gentle lid massage, and lid cleaning with approved wipes or diluted cleansers. Lubricant drops, omega-3 supplements, and sometimes antibiotic or anti-inflammatory treatments may be recommended for more persistent cases.