Eye blepharitis is the name for a whole group of eye diseases caused by various causes. One thing unites them - inflammatory processes on the eyelids. Pathology lasts a long time, is difficult to treat, and if cured, relapses are possible.
The disease reduces the efficiency and quality of life of the patient. In some cases, it can deprive a person of vision.
With blepharitis, inflammatory processes are most often bilateral and cover the ciliary edges of the eyelids. In most cases, the acute course of the disease quickly turns into a persistent (chronic) form.
Usually blepharitis of the eye does not entail permanent destruction of vision. This is possible only in advanced cases. Pathology significantly worsens the condition and comfort of the patient's life, but is not contagious (contagious).
Inflammation of the eyelids is most common in older people. However, it also happens in children, young people, middle-aged patients.
Inflammation of the eyelids are a separate disease caused by pathogenic bacteria, mites or fungi. Often they are a consequence of keratoconjunctivitis ().
Blepharitis can also be a symptom that accompanies other pathologies: lack of trace elements or vitamins in the body (hypovitaminosis); tuberculosis; anemia allergy; chronic infection; diabetes; diseases of the nasopharynx, teeth, gastrointestinal tract (GIT).
By code ICD-10 eye blepharitis has an index H01.0.
Types of blepharitis
In ophthalmology, there are several types of eye blepharitis, consider the most common diseases:
Scaly blepharitis(Blepharitis squamosal) is also called simple blepharitis (Blepharitis simplex). With it, they itch, blush and thicken, photophobia (photophobia) develops, the palpebral fissure decreases. At the base of the eyelashes, white or yellowish scales of dry epithelium and epidermis appear, tightly adhering to the skin. They are similar to dandruff.
Often blood vessels are visible on the eyelids. The patient is sensitive to dust and wind. By the end of the day, the patient feels a strong visual fatigue.
Ophthalmic rosacea(Blepharitis rosacea) is similar to scaly blepharitis, develops against the background of dermatological diseases of the face. Most of the patients suffering from rosacea have its manifestations in the eyes. But serious lesions of the eyelids, sclera and cornea of the eyes are observed in only 18 percent of them.
With mild ophthalmic rosacea, dryness and irritation of the eyes, visual disturbances can be observed. In severe cases of the disease, lesions of the surface of the eyes appear. For example, .
Ulcerative blepharitis(Blepharitis ulcerosa) is the most severe form of the pathology, usually observed in young people. She is in severe pain. Dry crusts and bleeding ulcers appear along the edges of the eyelids. Eyelashes peel off with crusts, their holes fester.
New hair grows incorrectly, eyelids often go bald. Rarely, the eyelids roll up or scar. Without timely therapy, inflammation passes to the cornea and conjunctiva.
Allergic blepharitis often accompanied by . Appears due to an allergic reaction to dust, pollen and fluff, cosmetics, wool, medicines, perfumes, household chemicals. The patient develops swelling and itching of the eyelids, tearing, pain in the eyes and photophobia.
Inflammation mostly occurs in both eyes. With chronic blepharitis of the eye, itching becomes unbearable. In the spring, when the plants bloom, the patient experiences an exacerbation.
meibomian blepharitis(Blepharitis meibomiana). With this type of disease, the sebaceous glands (meibomia), located deep in the cartilage of the eyelids, swell. If you press them down, yellow discharge appears. Pus accumulates in the corners of the eyes. Pathology often occurs against the background.
When the disease occurs, itching of the eyelids, severe after a night's sleep. Eyes itch and discharge flows from them. Over time, the eyelids become thicker and redden. White flakes form at the base of the eyelashes.
seborrheic blepharitis caused by pathologies of the follicles and glands of the eyelashes. Often occurs against the background of seborrhea of the sternum and head. Small greasy scales of gray color appear on the ciliary bases. If they are removed, the bleeding ulcers characteristic of ulcerative blepharitis do not form. Rarely, eyelashes fall out or turn gray.
By location, blepharitis of the eye is divided into the following types:
- posterior marginal, inflammation affects the thickness of the eyelids and affects meimobia, a complication with this variety is the destruction of the conjunctiva and cornea;
- anterior marginal, the pathology covers only the ciliary bases and is divided according to etiology into staphylococcal and seborrheic;
- angular, in this case, the inflammatory process affects the corners of the eyes.
Causes of blepharitis
There are many factors that cause blepharitis, but they all lead to inflammation of the eyelids. Some patients have hypersensitivity to allergic agents: dust, cosmetics, pollen, smoke, wind, etc. As a result, they develop allergic blepharitis. With a complication on the mucous membrane of the eye, such patients are diagnosed with blepharoconjunctivitis.
Often, eye blepharitis itself is the cause of diabetes or pathology of the gastrointestinal tract: cholecystitis, colitis, ulcers, gastritis. These diseases destabilize a person's metabolism, this affects the condition of the eyes. For example, the structure of the secretions of the sebaceous glands changes, the excretory paths of which are located between the eyelashes.
Eyelids can be attacked by Demodex mites. They can live in hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and on the skin. If the patient's immunity is reduced due to illness or other factors, the pests become more active. Penetrating on the eyelashes and eyelids, they provoke demodectic inflammation.
Eye blepharitis is often observed in patients with and who do not use glasses, as a result of which the muscles of the eye become very tense. Feeling discomfort, a person rubs his eyes with his hands, introducing an infection, as a result of which blepharitis develops.
It happens that pathological microorganisms bring lymph and blood flow to the eyelids from a diseased tooth or other infectious foci. In this case, infectious blepharitis develops.
Common causes of blepharitis:
- reduced immunity;
- general weakening of the body;
- lack of vitamins and minerals;
- anemia;
- metabolic disorders.
Symptoms of blepharitis
All symptoms of blepharitis are intermittent, long periods of remission are replaced by a deterioration in the patient's condition. Symptoms are often more pronounced in the morning.
The main symptoms of blepharitis include:
- feeling and sand in the eyes;
- increased sensitivity to light (photophobia);
- visual disturbances (decrease in its sharpness, fogging, feeling of a film on the eyes, etc.);
- itching, pain;
- pain in the eyes and eyelids;
- oily scales, crusts and dandruff at the base of the eyelashes;
- swelling, inflammation, thickening and redness of the eyelids, a feeling of heaviness in them;
- the formation of foamy discharge and pus in the eye corners;
- regular appearance of chalazions and barley;
- tearing or dry eyes;
- abnormal growth (trichiasis), partial or complete loss of eyelashes.
With posterior blepharitis, the excretory tracts of the sebaceous glands become inflamed. With the anterior, the tumor spreads to the follicles and the base of the eyelashes.
Symptoms of blepharitis are often associated with keratoconjunctivitis. With this disease, the lacrimal secret is not secreted in sufficient volumes or evaporates quickly. Most patients with blepharitis also have keratoconjunctivitis.
When inflammation of the eyelids occurs against the background of rosacea or seborrhea, the patient develops the corresponding symptoms.
Blepharitis in children: features and methods of treatment
Blepharitis in children appears with thin skin and loose tissues of the eyelids with a low fat content. A common cause of pathology is infection of the eyelids with Staphylococcus aureus against the background of a general weakening of the child.
Outdoor play, animal contact, toy sharing, etc., make babies' hands dirty. They do not like to wash them, but often rub their eyes, as a result of which viruses, microbes, worm eggs, sand, dust and other pathogenic agents get into them.
Children can get sick with all types of blepharitis. Pathology can develop imperceptibly for a long time. Because of this, therapy is started when the disease takes an acute form.
Often, blepharitis in children develops in a sluggish form, some of its traditional signs are not observed. There is a risk of complications: cellulitis, meibomitis, keratitis, conjunctivitis, etc. Due to unwashed hands, babies can become infected with a multiple infection that provokes combined forms of blepharitis.
Inflammation of the eyelids in children is provoked by:
- immunodeficiency;
- hypothermia;
- nervous and physical activity;
- current or cured infectious diseases;
- allergies;
- chronic diseases of the gastrointestinal tract;
- worm infection;
- diabetes;
- metabolic disorders;
- foreign objects in the eyes;
- infectious foci in the nose, mouth, tonsils, etc.;
- hormonal changes in the body during puberty;
- poor eye hygiene;
- congenital visual pathologies:,;
- food allergies: diffuse neurodermatitis, diathesis, sensitivity to milk, etc.;
- beriberi, protein deficiency, anemia due to impaired absorption in the gastrointestinal tract or infection with worms.
- swelling, inflammation, redness and itching of the eyelids;
- narrowed palpebral fissure;
- the appearance of crusts on the base of the eyelashes and their loss;
- redness of proteins and dilated blood vessels on them;
- burning, stinging, sensation of a foreign object and a film in the eyes;
The photo shows the symptoms of blepharitis in children. 
For the treatment of childhood blepharitis, eye drops are used: Miramistin, Sulfacil, Picloxidine. Antibacterial ointments are also used: Ophthalmotrim, Oriprim, Kolbiotsin.
Of the physiotherapeutic methods of treatment, magnetotherapy, ultraviolet irradiation, electrophoresis with and vitamins, ultra high-frequency therapy are used.
From herbal remedies for local treatment, tinctures of calendula and pharmacy chamomile are used. They have an anti-inflammatory effect.
In addition to therapeutic measures, the child's diet is adjusted; with allergic blepharitis, it should be hypoallergenic.
Diagnosis of blepharitis
Diagnosis of eye blepharitis is based on the clinical picture of the disease. It consists of the patient's complaints (anamnesis), the data of his examination, the identification of concomitant diseases and laboratory examinations.
Initially, the ophthalmologist determines the visual acuity of the patient. To detect myopia, astigmatism, hypermetropia, the doctor examines the condition and refraction of the eyes.
Then it is carried out. This is a visual examination to determine the structure and condition of the tear film, conjunctiva, eyelashes, cornea, and eyelid rims. The examination uses a slit lamp (ophthalmic microscope).
1. If necessary, an additional analysis is done in the diagnostic center. It reveals the microbial, cellular composition of the scraping from the conjunctiva, the detachable base of the eyelashes and the secret of the glands located there.
2. Demodectic blepharitis is diagnosed by microscopic examination of the removed eyelashes. Five pieces are taken from both eyes. The diagnosis is confirmed if the laboratory assistant finds 6 or more motile Demodex, their larvae, at the ciliary roots. If there are fewer ticks, then the person is a carrier, but not sick.
3. If infectious blepharitis is suspected, a bacteriological culture of a smear from the conjunctiva is performed.
4. If the cause of the disease is allergic reactions, the patient visits an allergist. He orders allergy tests.
5. If you suspect an infection with worms, the doctor prescribes an analysis of feces for their eggs.
6. Chronic blepharitis with thickening of the bases of the eyelashes suggests carcinoma, basal cell, or squamous cell carcinoma. To confirm or refute the prognosis, a histological biopsy is performed.
7. A differential examination of anterior blepharitis is performed if the patient has eyelid cancer or keratoconjunctivitis.
Careful care of the eyelids is the basis of the treatment of blepharitis, regardless of the causes of the disease.
Treatment of blepharitis
Treatment of blepharitis in adults and children should be comprehensive. The treatment regimen includes the following items.
Eye hygiene. Apply warm wet compresses that warm the glands of the eyelid, accelerating the secretion and clearing the discharge paths. For a compress, use a gauze napkin, a sterile cotton ball and a soft towel. They shouldn't burn the skin. The procedure should be carried out four times a day for ten minutes.
Eyelid cleansing. With a gauze napkin or a cotton swab dipped in warm water with baby shampoo, movements along the edge of the eyelids are cleaned of crusts, dandruff, scales and other discharge.
The first two points enable the patient to keep the eyelids clean. It removes at the same time pathological discharge and excessively produced secret of the sebaceous glands. This reduces the risk of re-infection.
Strengthening immunity. The patient takes vitamin complexes. His diet should be rich in trace elements and vitamins, protein, unsaturated fatty acids. If the patient's immunodeficiency is diagnosed using an immunogram, he takes immunostimulating agents.
Physiotherapy and eyelid massage for blepharitis. The patient performs simple exercises for the eyes every day, and then massages the eyelids to improve blood flow in them and relieve swelling.
With infectious and demodicosis blepharitis, the basis of drug therapy is etiotropic treatment. Its purpose is to destroy the pathogen. It is carried out after cleansing the eyelids.
In order for the therapy to be effective, the cause of the inflammation is determined before it is carried out. Then, according to the antibiogram test, it is determined which antibacterial and antiseptic drugs are most effective against the identified pathogen.
With etiotropic treatment, the doctor prescribes:
With allergic blepharitis, the doctor prescribes antihistamines: Suprastin, Loratadin, Allercaps, Neokler, Erius, etc. Hydrocartisone ointment is also an effective remedy.
With blepharitis accompanied by dry eye syndrome, the doctor prescribes drugs that replace the natural lacrimal secret: Vizin, Oftolik, Likontin, Okumetil, Vizimetin, etc. In the early days, the remedy is instilled throughout the day every hour of wakefulness. After 7-14 days, when a recession occurs, the dosage of the drug is reduced.
In particularly difficult cases of keratoconjunctivitis, the patient is shown surgical clogging of the lacrimal openings. They represent the beginning of the nasolacrimal duct. Their location is the inner corners of the eyes. The lacrimal punctum drains fluid from the eyes.
Treatment of blepharitis at home
Many people wonder how to treat eye blepharitis at home. In addition to drug therapy, hundreds of years have been treating blepharitis at home with folk remedies that can be very effective. But before using them, do not forget that this type of therapy must be approved by your doctor. Here are the most effective recipes that you can easily make at home:
1. Take one tablespoon celandine and pour into half a liter of boiling water. After the broth has stood for half an hour, strain it. Using this tincture, make compresses on your eyes 3-4 times a day for 15-20 minutes.
2. With blepharitis, the eye is very useful freshly squeezed aloe juice. Drink it three times a day, one teaspoon. Or drip into both eyes (before going to bed) two drops of this healing moisture.
3. Burr oil has an anti-inflammatory effect. It also promotes hair growth. Lubricate the base of the eyelashes with it. Do this before bed at night.
4. The following recipe gives a good effect. Pour one tablespoon into a glass of water (200 ml) cumin seeds. Stir the mixture and put to cook on a slow fire for about half an hour. After that, throw into the broth a teaspoon of eyebright leaves, plantain and cornflower flowers. Remove the infusion from the heat and leave to cool for half a day in a dry and warm place. Next, boil the broth for 5 minutes, strain it through cheesecloth and let it cool. The infusion should be applied to the eyes two drops twice a day.
5. Anti-inflammatory effect rose hips known for a long time. Pour 10 grams of them into a glass of water. Boil 20 minutes. Remove from heat and strain through several layers of cheesecloth. Rinse your eyes with this decoction every morning.
6. Inflammation of the eyelids is well relieved eucalyptus leaves. Boil two tablespoons (30 grams) of them in a water bath in a glass of water for 30 minutes. Then let the broth cool and strain through cheesecloth, folded in several layers. Dilute the resulting infusion with boiled water in a ratio of 1:1. Use it for compresses.
7. Lemon juice relieves inflammation, accelerates the processes of tissue regeneration, saturates them with biologically active substances. Take a glass of boiled water. Squeeze a few drops of fresh lemon into it. Rinse your eyes with this solution for a month.
Prevention of blepharitis
The most important condition for the successful prevention of blepharitis and further inflammation of the eyelids is hygiene and cleansing of the eyes. These procedures are performed in the same way as in the treatment of blepharitis.
Eyelids should not be touched, rubbed, especially if the hands are dirty. So you can introduce an additional infection and injure the base of the eyelashes. This will entail a severe form of blepharitis, which will be very difficult to cure. There is also a chronic, incurable form of the disease. With it, long periods of recession are possible, but not a complete cure.
In the prevention of blepharitis, it is important to regularly clean and disinfect the eyes. For this purpose, a solution of Furacilin or infusions of calendula, pharmacy chamomile is used. The eyelids are rubbed from the outer corner towards the inner edge of the eye. Sterile cotton swabs are used for the procedure.
The lifestyle and diet of the patient should be healthy. It is important that the food consumed has enough trace elements and vitamins.
When pathologies of the respiratory tract, oral cavity, gastrointestinal tract appear, they must be treated in a timely manner.
It is necessary to avoid interaction with allergenic agents, including seasonal ones, which cause inflammation of the eyelids in the patient. If this still happened, you need to urgently contact an ophthalmologist.
It is better for women to refrain from using cosmetics. It will irritate the eyelids and mucous membranes of the eyes. This will worsen the course of the disease and delay its recession.
Video
Ophthalmologists know why blepharitis develops, the symptoms and treatment of which have a number of features. With it, the edge of the eyelids becomes inflamed. The most common cause is an infection. In the absence of proper treatment, this pathology can lead to the development of keratitis, impaired eyelash growth, the formation of abscesses and other complications.
- burning;
- redness of the eyelid;
- lacrimation;
- the presence of scales;
- loss of eyelashes;
- eye fatigue;
- Availability .
Hyperemia may be the only symptom. It is observed with a simple form of blepharitis. The following factors contribute to the appearance of symptoms of inflammation:
- allergic reactions;
- ingress of dust and other particles;
- the use of cosmetics;
- demodicosis;
- autoimmune disorders;
- infection penetration;
- refractive error;
- contact dermatitis;
Seborrheic blepharitis is characterized by specific signs. In such people, along the edge of the eyelids, white scales can be found, resembling large dandruff. Peeling of the skin is determined. Additional symptoms include itching, a gritty feeling in the eyes, a burning sensation, and a feeling of heaviness after sleep. The person rubs the affected eye, but this does not help.
Scaly blepharitis is characterized by mild reddening of the edges of the eyelids. The general condition of patients is not disturbed. There is no fever. The edge of the century in such people is thickened. Seborrhea is found in patients on the scalp. This is a condition in which the function of the sebaceous glands is disturbed and crusts are formed that resemble dandruff.
Ulcerative blepharitis of the eyelids is characterized by the presence of yellowish ulcers. Then scars appear. They cause eyelash growth disorders. This condition is called trichiasis. Sometimes eyelashes actively fall out. It is possible to change their color. Chronic blepharitis of an infectious nature is characterized by severe hyperemia, pain, which is well eliminated by NSAIDs, and itching.
When examining patients, an increase in local temperature is detected. Separately, rosacea-blepharitis is highlighted. In such people, nodules of a gray-red color appear in the area of \u200b\u200bthe edge of the eyelids. Ulcers are also identified. When the conjunctiva is involved in the process, symptoms such as discharge from the eye, lacrimation, swelling of the eyelids, burning, itching and photophobia are observed.
Signs of allergic blepharitis
Allergic eye blepharitis is often diagnosed. It develops in children and adults. The following reasons for its development are known:
- instillation of drugs in the eyes;
- the use of cosmetics;
- contact with plant pollen or dust;
- microbial impact.
It is not uncommon to develop an allergy to pet hair and certain foods. Inflammation occurs upon repeated contact with the irritant. It is based on the binding of allergens to immunoglobulins. The process may involve the boundaries of eyelash growth, the meibomian glands and the corners of the eye.
Chronic blepharitis of an allergic nature proceeds with few symptoms. In an acute reaction, the following symptoms are observed:
- redness of the eyelids in both eyes;
- puffiness;
- severe itching;
- burning sensation;
- fear of bright light;
- lacrimation.
Such people feel better in the dark. The swelling of the eyelids is total. Often this leads to complete closure of the palpebral fissure and the inability to see objects. If a person has allergic blepharitis, then severe itching always worries. A person scratches the skin, which leads to infection. Photophobia and lacrimation are caused by eye irritation.
Acute allergic blepharitis is characterized by a violent, sudden onset. If a person is not treated, then a cosmetic defect may develop in the form of eyelash loss and thinning. Both eyes are involved in the process at the same time. Chronic blepharitis is characterized by an undulating course with pronounced seasonality. Exacerbations occur in spring and summer.
Symptoms of demodectic blepharitis
- sticking of eyelashes;
- rapid visual fatigue;
- hyperemia of the eyelids;
- redness.
Fatigue is caused by inflammation of the eyelash follicles. A person is worried about pain even with a short-term focusing of the gaze. This can lead to decreased visual acuity. Unlike seborrheic blepharitis, there is no dandruff with this pathology. A specific sign is sticking of eyelashes. The reason is the inflammatory process.
Along with the general clinical manifestations of demodicosis, the following symptoms are possible:
- acne;
- increased oiliness of the skin;
- redness of the skin.
Ticks cause the development of persistent chronic blepharitis. A cured person can get sick again. Medications can eliminate the symptoms of inflammation.
Treatment methods for patients
Before you can cure blepharitis, you need to exclude other diseases. The following studies are being carried out:
- bacteriological analysis;
- general blood analysis;
- determination of immunoglobulins in the blood;
- examination of feces for helminths;
- allergic tests;
- ophthalmoscopy;
- skiascopy;
- biomicroscopy;
- microscopy of eyelashes for the presence of mites.
With hypertrophy of the eyelids, it is required to exclude malignant diseases (cancer). For this, a biopsy is performed. The treatment regimen is determined by the attending physician. You need to know not only what blepharitis is, but also how to get rid of it. General aspects of therapy are:
- careful hygienic care of the eyelids;
- cleansing the skin from scales and purulent secretions with the help of tampons;
- instillation of anti-inflammatory drops;
- massage.
A simple form of blepharitis requires the use of antiseptics, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Every day, the eyelids must be wiped with a swab moistened with saline or Furacilin. They have an antiseptic effect. Ointments based on hydrocortisone and dexamethasone are widely used. They need to process the edges of the inflamed eyelids.
Auxiliary methods of treatment include eyelid massage. It is effective in blepharoconjunctivitis and stagnation of the secretion of the meibomian glands. Massage is organized after preliminary anesthesia with a special glass rod. How to treat ulcerative blepharitis is not known to everyone.
Therapy in this case pursues the following tasks:
- softening of the crusts with their subsequent removal;
- destruction of microbes;
- normalization of metabolism.
Pathological formations are removed with tweezers from the inflamed edge of the eyelid after preliminary application of vaseline ointment. To suppress the activity of bacteria, ointments based on erythromycin and tetracycline are used. In the treatment regimen for blepharitis of the eyelids of infectious etiology, Dex-Gentamicin ointment or drops are often included.
This is a complex drug. It is not suitable for children, pregnant women and people who wear contact lenses. The drug is contraindicated in viral and fungal eye infections, hypersensitivity, glaucoma and corneal damage. The dosage and duration of therapy is determined by the doctor. To normalize the metabolism in the tissues of the eyelid, it is recommended to make lotions with zinc sulfate.
Treatment of seborrheic blepharitis
If a person has scaly blepharitis, then the following treatment recommendations are required:
- wash eyelids;
- remove scales;
- apply means in the form of ointments based on corticosteroids;
- make tricks.
An important aspect of therapy is to ensure proper hygiene of the eyelids. With seborrheic blepharitis, treatment involves the use of a slightly alkaline solution. 2% sodium bicarbonate works well. Scales should be removed at least 3 times a day. Better to do it more often. Scaly blepharitis is treated with corticosteroid ointments.
A liniment based on hydrocortisone has an excellent effect. Lotions are included in the treatment regimen for patients. They use zinc sulfate. This form of inflammation of the eyelids occurs in a chronic form for months and even years. According to indications, antibacterial agents are prescribed in the form of ointments. They need to process the edges of the affected eyelids.
Treatment of allergic blepharitis
Treatment of blepharitis at home is carried out only in the absence of complications. With an allergic form of inflammation, it is necessary:
- stop contact with a potential allergen;
- take antihistamines;
- carry out external treatment.
Such people often need the help of a dermatologist and an allergist. It is important to identify the potential stimulus. If it is animal hair, then you need to limit contact with pets as much as possible. If you are allergic to the waste products of mites, bedbugs and house dust, you need to treat bedding and clothes, as well as regularly carry out wet cleaning at home.
If the cause of the development of blepharitis is in harmful production factors, then it is required to wear goggles or a mask. Women should definitely give up makeup. All patients with allergic blepharitis are recommended:
- during the active flowering of plants, go out less often, avoid squares and parks;
- follow a hypoallergenic diet;
- wear sunglasses;
- avoid bright light;
- use vacuum cleaners with modern filters;
- wipe the eyes with a decoction of chamomile;
- do not use contact lenses.
Antihistamine drugs are prescribed (Zodak, Zirtek, Tavegil, Clemastin, Cetirizine, Cetrin). They eliminate itching and burning. When prescribed drops Allergodil or Lekrolin. They are contraindicated in children under 4 years of age and people with hypersensitivity to the drug. With isolated blepharitis, hydrocortisone ointment is indicated. The treatment regimen often includes antibacterial agents (Tobrex, Normaks).
Forecast and methods of prevention
The prognosis for inflammation of the edge of the eyelid is most often favorable. Timely and correct treatment allows you to save vision. With a late visit to the doctor or ignoring the symptoms, the following complications are possible:
- barley formation;
- chalazion;
- eyelid deformity;
- damage to the conjunctiva;
- trichiasis;
- keratitis;
- decreased visual function.
In this case, surgery may be required. Conservative therapy is ineffective. Vein plastic surgery, torsion correction or chalazion removal is performed. Specific prevention of blepharitis has not been developed. This pathology can be prevented. To avoid scaly blepharitis or any other, you must adhere to the following rules:
Thus, blepharitis is a very common pathology. With itching, redness and swelling of the eyelids, you need to visit an ophthalmologist. Self-medication can harm and lead to complications.
Video
Blepharitis is a pathology in which there is inflammation of the edges of the eyelids. This inflammation causes discomfort, impairs vision, and causes pain, itching, and burning. The causes of this inflammation can be many pathologies and diseases.
Anatomy of the century
The eyelid is an appendage of the eye that performs the function of mechanical protection of the eye in the form of flaps. However, the function of the eyelids is not only the mechanical protection of the eye from aggressive environmental factors. The eyelids contain lacrimal openings and tubules through which tears flow from the eye into the nasal cavity.Symptoms of various types of blepharitis
| Type of blepharitis | Symptoms | What does it look like? |
|---|---|---|
| Slight redness of the edge of the eyelids, moderate itching, burning, heaviness of the eyelids. | |
| Intense itching of eyelids, aggravated by warmth. Eye fatigue, redness, frothy discharge at the edges of the eyelids. |  |
| Redness of the edge of the eyelids, burning, itching, feeling of sand in the eyes. On the edges of the eyelids, a lot of scales form (similar in appearance to dandruff). |  |
| Feeling of sand in the eyes, burning, redness of the eyelids, purulent discharge from the eye, gluing of the edges of the eyelids after sleep. Purulent crusts appear on the edges of the eyelids. |  |
Diagnosis of blepharitis
| Type of blepharitis | Types of diagnostics | The purpose and method of diagnosis | |
|
| ||
| Dilated vessels of the edge of the eyelids, conjunctiva of the eyelid with dilated vessels. The posterior edge of the eyelid may not fit snugly against the eyeball. | ||
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| Reveals redness of the edge of the eyelids | |
| Redness of the edge of the eyelids | |
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| The eyelids are thickened, with crusts between the eyelashes, muffs on the eyelashes. |  |
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| Redness of the edge of the eyelids, edematous eyelids, visually visible scales on the ciliary edge of the eyelid. | |
| The edge of the river is reddened, the scales between the eyelashes, the scales are separated freely. Under the scales, inflamed, thinned skin of the eyelids is found. | |
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| Redness of the eyelids, purulent discharge, from which the eyelashes stick together. | |
| Lots of dry eyelashes along the edge. Abundant purulent discharge, drying up, turns into purulent crusts. When these crusts are removed, ulcers of various depths are formed along the edge of the eyelid. | |
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Treatment of blepharitis
| Type of blepharitis | Methods of treatment | Purpose of treatment | How is the treatment done? |
| Toilet century |
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| Antibiotics |
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| Antiseptics | To suppress the activity of bacteria on the surface of the eyelids. | Ointment Furacilin 0.2% Treat the edges of the eyelid 2 times a day |
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| Toilet century | It is necessary to remove crusts from the surface of the eyelid, and any secretions. | Regular visits to the doctor are necessary to remove newly formed crusts on the surface of the eyelid. Wiping does not lead to the desired cleansing, it is necessary to remove them with tweezers under a microscope. |
| Anti-inflammatory drugs | To reduce the inflammatory activity of the process. |
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| Antibiotics Also, the development of inflammation of the eyelids in children contributes to: The most common allergens that cause blepharitis are:
 A photo:symptoms of allergic blepharitis in a child. Allergic blepharitis in most cases has a chronic course. Exacerbations occur every time a person encounters allergens. 1.
Where possible and necessary eliminate the cause
, which led to the development of blepharitis (avoid contact with allergens, treat seborrhea, and so on),
1.
Lotions with tea: brew bags of black and / or green tea, then apply them on the eyelids for 30 minutes, tea, due to the trace elements and tannin contained in it, will relieve inflammation, swelling, and reduce itching. |
Traditional medicine recipes:
7.
Infusion of thyme (thyme) - Pour 1 tablespoon of herbs with 200.0 ml of boiling water and insist for 1 hour. After straining, wash your eyes twice a day. Thyme has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. 
Hello again, dear readers! Today we will continue to talk about blepharitis and the features of its treatment. As you already know, this eye pathology is accompanied by inflammation of the edges of the eyelids and is characterized by a chronic course, that is, from time to time the disease recurs.
One of the most common types is scaly blepharitis, which is also called seborrheic. This form of the disease affects not only the eyelids, but also often affects the scalp.
At the same time, the treatment of scaly blepharitis lasts quite a long time and consists of a set of measures, which I will tell you about now.
Scaly blepharitis usually does not cause significant discomfort, so it is considered one of the simplest varieties of the disease. However, in the absence of proper treatment, it can turn into a more complex form, and this is fraught with serious consequences.
That is why it is so important to diagnose and start treating seborrheic blepharitis on time.
By what signs can the disease be recognized?
The development of scaly blepharitis is indicated by the formation of small gray-brown scales along the edges of the eyelids, resembling dandruff. It is necessary to remove such scales very carefully so as not to damage the inflamed and flattened areas of the skin located under them.
This external sign, by which scaly blepharitis can be determined, is not the only one. Other symptoms also signal a disease of the organs of vision, namely:
- the occurrence of painful sensations when looking at bright light sources;
- increased tearing;
- increasing itching of the eyelids;
- excessive swelling of the eyelids;
- dry eyes.
Stages of treatment of scaly blepharitis
To avoid unpleasant consequences, it is strongly recommended to start therapy for scaly blepharitis no later than 2-3 days after you discover the first symptoms of the disease.
The primary goal of therapeutic measures is to eliminate the cause that provoked the inflammatory process. For this, a thorough diagnosis of the whole organism is carried out, since scaly blepharitis could begin due to infectious processes in the body.
It is very important to correctly identify the causative agent of the disease and eliminate it.
There are the following stages of treatment of seborrheic blepharitis:
- Carrying out the toilet of the edges of the eyelids. Synthomycin emulsion (1%) or fish oil is applied to the ciliary edge of the eyelids.
- Irrigation of the eyelids with antiseptic preparations (Sulfacyl sodium, ethereal alcohol or brilliant green) and applying an ointment containing sulfanilamide or an antibiotic (tetracycline or dibiomycin-based ointment, Chloramphenicol) to damaged ciliary edges.
If necessary, the ophthalmologist prescribes additional medications (hydrocortisone ointment in combination with an antibiotic).
- Instillation of drops. After treating the eyelids and applying the ointment, therapeutic solutions are instilled into the conjunctival sac (drops of Dexamethasone, Prednisolone, Tsipromed, Prenacid).
- The use of compresses from herbal infusions that have an anti-inflammatory effect.
- Perform eyelid massage. Massaging the inflamed eyelids allows you to eliminate stagnation of the secretion, reduce swelling of the eyelids and improve blood flow.
Secrets of traditional medicine
As a complex therapy for scaly blepharitis is welcome. To prepare an effective medicine, cumin seeds and eyebright are poured into 250 ml of purified water, and boiled for about 40 minutes over low heat.
The resulting solution is infused for a day, after which it should be filtered and used for its intended purpose in the form of drops (at the rate of 4-5 drops in each eye). The duration of treatment is 3 weeks.
You can also mix 1 tbsp. l. chamomile with 1 tbsp. l. calendula flowers. Pour 250 ml of water over the herbs and simmer for 10 minutes. This decoction is intended for internal use.
When it cools down, take 1/3 cup up to 3 times a day, for a month. For oral administration, a decoction of celandine and thyme is also used. Herbs taken in equal proportions should be poured with a glass of boiling water and let them brew for 45 minutes. Strain the tincture and consume it daily 3-5 times.
Seborrheic blepharitis is one of the types of extremely unpleasant and complex eye disease of blepharitis. It can be recognized by such obvious symptoms as the appearance of a white or yellowish crust, similar to seborrhea, around the eyelashes.
What is a feature of the disease is that two eyes of a person most often suffer from the disease at once. If you do not identify seborrheic blepharitis in time and do not consult a doctor for treatment, complications that are dangerous to vision may occur.
Because of what seborrheic blepharitis arises and develops, its main and secondary symptoms, stages of the disease - that's what is important to know about it. Also in this article you will find methods of treatment (drug and folk), preventive measures and possible complications.
What it is?
Seborrheic blepharitisScaly blepharitis (seborrheic) is a disease in which the edges of the eyelids are affected. A characteristic feature is that a white or yellow crust appears at the base of the eyelashes, similar to seborrhea.
This ailment is one of the most common eye diseases and most often spreads simultaneously to both eyes. The disease can affect not only the eyelids, but also the eyebrows and scalp.
Children and immunocompromised people are at risk. And also blepharitis can be a consequence of other eye diseases. Scaly blepharitis can appear at any age.
Classified according to the localization of blepharitis:
- anterior marginal - the mildest form of seborrheic blepharitis, the human eyelids are affected only along the ciliary line;
- posterior marginal - the pathology affects the meibomian glands;
- angular (angular) - blepharitis is localized in the corners of the eyes.
By the nature of blepharitis:
- spicy;
- subacute;
- chronic.
In medicine, there are three stages of the disease:
- Stage 1 - manifested by slight redness and itching of the eyelids;
- Stage 2 - scaly scales appear on the eyes, swelling and itching intensify. A person may feel pain, burning;
- Stage 3 - pus and blood are found under the crusts, discharge from the eye sticks together, forming bundles.
Seborrheic blepharitis or seborrhea is the most severe form of the disease. It is especially dangerous because of the various complications that it causes if treatment is started. The main lesion falls on the eyelids. The disease often manifests itself in the form of graying or complete loss of eyelashes.
A characteristic feature that gave the name to this variety is the flaking of epidermal scales at the base of the eyelashes. The edge of the eyelid thickens and becomes hyperermic.
With such a violation, severe discomfort appears, the quality of life and visual acuity decrease, therefore, when the first signs of the disease appear, you should immediately consult a doctor.
In addition to this form, the appearance of ulcerative, allergic and tick-borne inflammation is possible, but today we would like to talk about the most common form.
Sometimes the process extends to the conjunctiva and develops blepharoconjunctivitis. With a long course of scaly blepharitis, partial alopecia occurs (loss of eyelashes), an eversion of the eyelid may form.
Symptoms
Source: ofthalm.ru Symptoms and treatment depend on the individual characteristics of the patient, so they may differ. As with any other pathology, the detection of a violation at an early stage greatly facilitates the process of recovery.
Scaly, or seborrheic, blepharitis is often combined with seborrheic dermatitis of the scalp, eyebrows, behind the ear areas, characterized by redness and thickening of the edges of the eyelids with the formation of scales between the eyelashes, tightly attached to the skin.
The seborrheic appearance has both common symptoms with ulcerative, angular, meibomian, demodectic blepharitis, as well as individual signs.
The disease of blepharitis is generally characterized by a feeling of dryness of the eyeball, a feeling of the presence of a foreign object in the eye, stuck together eyelids (eyelashes), especially after sleep, itching, tingling.
The first signs of the disease are itchy dots that originate closer to the edge of the eyelid along the growth of eyelashes. At first, the eye begins to itch, after which it develops into a burning sensation. It itches the eye only during the period of secretion of the alveolar gland.
There are mild and severe forms of the disease. With a mild form, redness of the eyelids is noticeable and a frozen epithelium of the sebaceous gland is visible, which takes the form of scales in the ciliary row.
Itching may not cause a strong sensation of irritation and stinging, but always the eyes get tired quickly, and are prone to discomfort during bright sunlight (itching can be replaced by pain).
With the physical separation of the dried crust from the skin, a red swelling always remains, which does not bleed, and eventually crusts again (ulcers or erosion may form).
You should not remove the formation yourself, as this may later affect the incorrect growth of eyelashes.
In the course of the development of the disease, the edges of the eyelids increase in size, the swelling reaches such a size that the eyelids cannot fully touch the eye, so lacrimation appears.
In the advanced stage of scaly blepharitis, cases of eyelash loss (partial) are not uncommon, and ectropion may also occur - a condition in which the eyelid turns outward. A festering or inflamed wound may form.
Common symptoms for all varieties of blepharitis that accompany this disease:
- increasing itching, burning and eye fatigue, especially in the evening;
- eyelids become inflamed, swollen;
- due to gluing of eyelashes, the eyes do not open well after sleep;
- there is a strong outflow of lacrimal fluid;
- pain in the light;
- sensitivity to wind, dust.
Tears begin to stand out profusely when working at a computer or while watching TV. At night, discharge from the eyes also occurs.
By the morning they dry up and stick together eyelashes. Most patients complain of high sensitivity to light, dust, wind and other irritants.
Wearing lenses during the period of illness causes eye irritation, burning. If left untreated, the disease proceeds for years, is complicated by the loss of eyelashes, conjunctivitis, and dysfunction of the sebaceous glands.
In a chronic course, the eyelid is smoothed, which prevents its full fit to the eye and leads to dryness of the mucous membrane.
During a visit to an ophthalmologist, the doctor will have to determine the degree of progression of the disease and confirm the diagnosis. During the diagnosis, visual acuity is established and biomicroscopy is performed, which allows you to assess the condition of the eyeball, cornea and eyelid.
The nature of the disease is determined by scraping. This procedure is painless and is carried out using a special wand. In addition, sometimes a dye solution is instilled into the eyes, after which the doctor examines the cornea and determines its main parameters.
Seborrheic blepharitis: causes
Blepharitis is of infectious and non-infectious origin. In the first case, the cause of inflammation of the eyelids is a staphylococcal infection, domestic mites, fungi, in the second - various diseases (and not only ophthalmic), or allergic reactions.
A scaly variety of blepharitis is a consequence of seborrheic dermatitis. Most often, the disease occurs along with seborrheic dermatitis, which affects large areas of the head (the area behind the auricles, in the shells themselves, nasolabial folds and the scalp), but it is not the causative agent of blepharitis.
There is no single factor that influences the development of scaly blepharitis, but some common risk factors have been noted:
- fatigue of the body, decreased immunity due to viral or bacterial infections;
- chronic diseases of the digestive tract;
- metabolic disorder;
- negative environmental conditions;
- lack of vitamins and minerals in the body;
- dryness of the mucous membrane of the eye apparatus;
- disruption of the gastrointestinal tract, diabetes or anemia;
- a large amount of dust at home or at work;
Experts identify specific pathologies that encourage the development of the disease, when eliminated, the symptoms of scaly blepharitis are self-liquidated:
- visual refractive errors (eg, myopia, hypermetropia);
- chronic eye pathologies (for example, conjunctivitis);
- decreased immune function of the body;
- chronic diseases of the body (for example, diabetes, anemia, pancreatitis, gastrointestinal pathologies);
- rickets;
- hypovitaminosis;
Additional causes of the development of the disease:
- visual defects (myopia, farsightedness);
- dry eye syndrome;
- diseases of the oral cavity (caries, periodontal disease);
Also, simple blepharitis can be provoked by neglect of personal hygiene rules, too long exposure to the sun, wind or in a polluted room.
Diagnosis and treatment
Source: mediccity.ru This type of blepharitis can lead to dangerous consequences if you do not consult a doctor and treat yourself.
In order to prescribe the right treatment and build a comprehensive scheme for a quick and successful approach to the fight against the disease, the attending physician first prescribes laboratory tests and the passage of other specialists.
As with any ophthalmic disease, if the symptoms persist for several days, you should definitely consult a doctor to establish the correct diagnosis and prescribe the appropriate treatment.
First of all, the ophthalmologist listens to the patient's complaints (eyes itch, itching or pain in the upper and lower eyelids). Next, proceeds to examine the focus of the disease.
If signs of seborrheic blepharitis are detected (the eyelids are swollen and reddish, scales are present in the ciliary row), the doctor examines the eyes under a special ophthalmic microscope - a slit lamp, to confirm or refute the alleged diagnosis.
In rare cases, the doctor is forced to refer the patient to a laboratory study of tissue scrapings. During a visit to an ophthalmologist, the doctor will have to determine the degree of progression of the disease and confirm the diagnosis.
During the diagnosis, visual acuity is established and biomicroscopy is performed, which allows you to assess the condition of the eyeball, cornea and eyelid.
In seborrheic blepharitis, treatment should be complex and most often takes a long time. The goal of therapy is to cure dermatitis, strengthen general immunity, get rid of infection, as well as normalize nutrition and improve living conditions.
Girls during treatment will need to completely exclude decorative cosmetics, since it only aggravates the current condition.
In extreme cases, when inflammation cannot be treated with conservative methods and the disorder continues to progress, resort to a surgical method.
To avoid this, it is enough to consult a doctor in time and follow all his recommendations. Any attempts at self-treatment or uncontrolled use of folk remedies can lead to serious consequences, which then cannot be corrected.
Treatment of the disorder can take quite a long time, but with the right approach, improvements will be noticeable in a few weeks.
Regardless of the cause that caused blepharitis, careful hygiene of the eyelids is necessary. A large number of special lotions and gels for hygienic treatment of the eyelids are presented on the modern pharmaceutical market.
Additionally, based on the cause of the disease, drops or ointments are prescribed. The basis of the treatment of seborrheic blepharitis is daily hygienic treatment of the eyelids.
Hydrocortisone eye ointment is prescribed as a course to eliminate acute symptoms. Since dry eye syndrome is common in scaly blepharitis, moisturizing drops are recommended.
Considering that almost all patients with blepharitis have any concomitant diseases, general treatment is necessary: nutrition correction, vitamin therapy, increased immunity, elimination of concomitant pathology.
In case of acute or chronic inflammation of the eyelids, you should consult a doctor. You cannot self-medicate. This can be not only ineffective, but also dangerous due to possible complications.
The specialist will help to establish the cause of blepharitis, show how to properly carry out hygienic treatment and massage of the eyelids, and prescribe the necessary treatment.
If the disease is not treated, then other ophthalmic pathologies may develop:
- conjunctivitis - the disease is characterized by inflammation and swelling of the eyelids.
- keratitis is a pathological process of the cornea of the eye.
- trichiasis - abnormal growth of eyelashes.
- chalazion - a compacted formation on the eyelid.
Blepharitis easily flows into a chronic form if the rules of hygiene of the eyelids are not observed and medicines are used incorrectly, therefore, control by a specialist and careful implementation of the doctor's recommendations by the patient is required.
Medical treatment
As a means of local treatment, drops and medicinal ointments are used. To soften the affected edges of the eyelids, a Synthomycin solution or fish oil is used.
The treatment also includes the application of an antiseptic, and then a healing ointment is applied. Among the funds recommended for use, it should be noted: Gentamicin, Fucidin, tetracycline and hydrocortisone ointments, as well as a number of others.
The main means of therapy include zinc sulfate, prednisolone and desonide. Solutions of funds are instilled into the conjunctival cavity. Good efficiency is demonstrated by such a tool as a compress from infusion of calendula.
There are also highly specialized solutions, such as blepharogel. It should be immediately noted that the process of treating seborrhea is long, patients will notice the first results in a few weeks, and in general, therapy can take up to a year.
To achieve a positive result, in addition to hygiene procedures and compresses, the treatment is also carried out with medication:
- Be sure to treat the eyelids with an antiseptic, and then apply an ointment based on an antibiotic, or topical antibacterial preparations.
- Anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic drops are instilled into the conjunctival cavity (the pharmacy industry offers a fairly large selection of these drugs that have a set of indications).
- Assign a tear fluid substitute, which eliminates dry eyes.
- Operative treatment is possible.
In addition to the above treatment, eyelid massage has proven itself well. It speeds up recovery, massage is carried out mechanically or with a special stick, which can be purchased at a pharmacy, you can apply ointment and massage your eyelids with it.
It is important to observe the technique of applying the ointment and applying drops:
- Take a seated position.
- Tilt your head back a little.
- Open the vial and test press.
- Pull the eyelid down with one hand, and hold the vial over the conjunctival cavity with the other.
- Enter the required amount of solution or ointment.
- Close your eyes tightly until a tear is released.
It is worth noting that lenses should not be worn at the peak of the disease, because they increase itching, they are replaced with glasses. It is also recommended not to use decorative eye makeup.
Eyelid hygiene is a must. The procedure consists of the following steps:
- One of the medicines, such as fish oil, synthomycin ointment and others, is applied to the edges of the eyelids with a gauze disc, left for ten minutes.
- After softening the parched particles, taking cotton swabs and moistening them with medicinal decoctions of chamomile or calendula, they are removed by running a wand along the eyelashes.
- In this case, in no case should you make movements up and down. In addition, procedures can only be started when the particles are completely softened, otherwise damage may appear that is very difficult to treat.
- After cleaning the affected area, an antiseptic is sprayed onto it: alcohol solutions with ether or brilliant green, drops of sodium sulfacyl.
- Then the affected areas are lubricated with an antibiotic ointment (tetracycline, sulfacyl sodium, fucidin, dibiomycin and others).
- Sometimes, in the acute form of the disease, the doctor prescribes hormonal steroid drugs (hydrocortisone ointment, dexamethasone), their use with antibacterial agents (gentamicin) is effective.
- Various drops are dripped into the eyes: albucid, zinc sulfate, sodium sulfacyl, artificial tears, oftagel.
Only treatment in the complex helps to eliminate the cause of the symptoms of blepharitis, unfortunately, it is long and painstaking.
Scaly blepharitis brings a lot of discomfort and significantly reduces the quality of life. When initial symptoms appear, you should immediately contact an ophthalmologist.
Inaction or self-treatment with folk remedies can lead to sad consequences: the transition of the process into a chronic form, deterioration of vision, and the occurrence of complications.
It must be remembered that only an ophthalmologist will be able to accurately establish the diagnosis and select the optimal medications.
Although the treatment of seborrheic blepharitis is long, after a few weeks, improvements and signs of stabilization of the process will become noticeable. The eyes are an important and priceless organ, treat it with care.
Hygiene and compresses
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