Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a common eye condition which is linked and can cause dry eyes and conjunctivitis. There are a few types of blepharitis, each with its own management. Overall Blepharitis can cause:
- Red Eyes
- Sore eyes
- Conjunctivitis
- Dry Eyes
- Gritty Eyes
- Recurring Styes
Anterior Blepharitis
Anterior Blepharitis is where there is excess skin bacteria causing inflammation around the lid margin. This most common treatment for this is using lid wipes to help reduce the excess bacteria and reduce inflammation, returning the lids to their original self.
Posterior Blepharitis
This is also called Meibomian Gland Dysfunction and is where the meibomian glands are blocked. This causes poor tear quality and causes dry eyes. The treatment for this is regular warm lid compress to help clear out the blockages and help the glands return to normal working condition.
Demodex Blepharitis
Demodex Blepharitis is a very common type of blepharitis, especially with those over 60 years of age. The cause is the Demodex Mite which burrows into and around the lashes and lives there. Most of the time this is never a problem and causes no symptoms; however in a small number of people it causes regular infections and bouts of red eyes. There are 2 types of treatments, the first is to use a mixture of walnut oil and tea tree oil and apply around closed eyes for 10 minutes every 2 weeks. This is done 3 times over 6 weeks and helps to calm down the infection. The other is to use special lid wipes specially designed to reduce the infection daily for up to 2-3 months.
At Murray Opticians, we will listen to your symptoms and investigate the cause of your eye complaint and help make a management plan.
