Home Remedies and Herbs for Blepharitis

Blepharitis is a common condition that affects the eyelids. Blepharitis causes the eyelid to become inflamed. Blepharitis affects the part of the eyelid where the skin meets the eyelashes or the overall eyelid. It can affect one or both eyes, but most commonly it affects both eyes.^{1 2} Blepharitis can affect anyone at any age. It can become a chronic condition whereby it continues to recur and becomes difficult to treat. It’s is not a serious condition but rather is uncomfortable and unsightly. It’s not a contagious condition.^{1 2}

What Causes Blepharitis?

Blepharitis causes are due to the small oil glands near the base of the eyelashes becoming clogged. When the oil glands become clogged, they respond by becoming inflamed. This causes the eyelid to swell and become irritated.³ There are several potential blepharitis causes depending on which part of the eyelid is affected. The types of blepharitis and their causes include:²

• Anterior Blepharitis: Occurs when the skin around the base of the eyelash becomes inflamed. This is caused by seborrheic dermatitis, which causes the skin on the eyelid to become flakey and oily. Or it can be caused by a Staphylococcal bacterial infection.
• Posterior Blepharitis: Occurs when the Meibomian glands along the base of the eyelashes become inflamed because they’re clogged with debris.
• Mixed Blepharitis: Occurs due to a combination of anterior and posterior blepharitis causes.

Other possible blepharitis causes include:³

• Eyelash mites or lice
• Allergic reactions to eye makeup, medications or contact lens solutions
• A chronic skin condition called rosacea

Blepharitis Symptoms

Common blepharitis symptoms include:^{1 4}

• Red, sore and itchy eyelids
• Oily or crusty eyelid skin and eyelashes
• Burning sensation in the eyes
• Swollen eyelids
• Watery eyes
• Flaking skin around eyelids
• Frequent blinking
• Increased sensitivity to light
• Difficulty wearing contact lenses

Blepharitis symptoms commonly affect both eyes and can often seem worse in the morning upon waking. In severe cases, people may also experience abnormal eyelash growth or loss of eyelashes.^{1 4} In most cases, people can use blepharitis natural cures to heal the inflammation. Employing proper eye care and hygiene can also improve blepharitis symptoms.

References

1. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/blepharitis/basics/definition/con-20024605
2. http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/blepharitis/Pages/Introduction.aspx
3. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/blepharitis/basics/causes/con-20024605
4. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/blepharitis/basics/symptoms/con-20024605