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Common Eye Diseases :: Blepharitis |
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BLEPHARITIS
Blepharitis is a very common condition of the glands of the eyelids. These glands produce oil that is necessary for the softness, smoothness, moistness, and health of the surface of the eye and eyelids. Most patients with Blepharitis experience abnormal oil production causing problems with the skin of the eyelids and abnormal lubrication of the eyes.
Symptoms can include itchy or scaly eyelids with crusting or .matter. on the eyelids, eyelashes, or in the eyes, dryness of the eyes or at the other extreme . excessive tearing, blurry vision, burning of the eyes, or redness of the eyes and/or eyelids. These patients are also more prone to certain types of eye infections as well as styes and chalazions (lumpy bumpy blocked up oil glands).
Blepharitis can occur in anyone (children and adults) and can occur alone or as a result of skin diseases like Acne Rosacea, Exzema, Seborrhea, etc., and can also occur in association with Parkinson.s.
Blepharitis is diagnosed by the Ophthalmologist during examination and has many different treatments based on the severity of the problem:
1] Eyelid scrubs or Eyelid Hygiene. This involves keeping the pores of the eyelid oil glands open and clean. These pores are located at the base of the eyelashes. Warm compresses and gentle cleansing with baby shampoo can open these pores;
2] Lubrication of the eyes with Artificial Tears or Lubricant Eye Drops can help thin out thick sludgy secretions and keep the eyes moist, smooth and clean;
3] Antibiotic eye drops and/or ointments can kill germs that may cause secondary infections that worsen the problem;
4] Steroid eye drops or ointments can reduce the irritation of the eyes and eyelids;
5] Tetracycline/Minocycline/Doxycycline/Erythromycin are antibiotics taken by mouth that can reduce the irritation of these glands;
6] Steroid injections into Chalazions (blocked) oil glands can reduce the bumpy appearance;
7] Incision and Drainage (minor surgery) can open some of these Chalazions (blocked oil glands);
8] Flaxseed Oil taken as capsules by mouth can also improve this condition.
Most patients with Blepharitis will have it forever. But there will be times when the disease will be inactive or low grade producing no problems or symptoms.
Suresh G. Kamath, M.D.
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See also... |
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 Overview
Cataract - Article 1
Cataract - Article 2
Glaucoma
Dry Eye
Blepharitis
Macular Degeneration
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Suresh G. Kamath, M.D. is a Board Certified Physician and Surgeon. Dr. Kamath specializes in the medical and surgical care of the eye (Ophthalmology), eyelids and skin (Eye or Oculoplastic Surgery).
Our mission at Capital Eye Care is to provide excellent care in an environment that combines education, clinical leadership and service to the community.
We offer office based surgery for most eyelid and skin procedures for adults.
We accept all new and established patients for routine, emergency and elective/cosmetic visits.
We accept patients age seven and above.
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