Eyelid itching can be an intensely aggravating and potentially vision-endangering symptom. Many disorders can cause eyelid itching, including genetic and acquired skin conditions, allergies and infections. Some causes of eyelid itching are limited disorders that can be resolved with treatment. Other causes of this condition prove chronic, requiring ongoing treatment to control the underlying disorder and minimize symptoms.
Atopic Dermatitis
Eyelid involvement may occur in people with atopic dermatitis, a condition characterized by intense itching due to increased skin reactivity to substances in the environment. Atopic dermatitis of the eyelids typically causes inflammation of the outer and inner eyelids, according to the American Academy of Dermatology on the patient information website EczemaNet. The itching may be so intense that the front of the eye, or the cornea, becomes deformed due to persistent rubbing of the eyes. Itching is typically accompanied by excessive tearing, burning and eye discharge.
Allergic Dermatitis
Allergies remain a common cause of eyelid inflammation and itching, says Drs. Kathani Amin and Donald Belsito in a 2006 article published in the journal Contact Dermatitis. Possible triggering substances include pet dander, dust, mold, pollen, perfumes, makeup and cosmetic applicators, artificial nails, nail polish, metals and antibiotic ointments or eye drops. Various preservatives found in cosmetics, shampoos, hair-care products, lotions and lubricating eye drops can also precipitate eye allergy symptoms. Avoiding contact with substances that trigger eye allergies is an important aspect of management of the disorder. Antihistamine and anti-inflammatory eye drops may prove useful in relieving the symptoms of eye allergies.
Blepharitis
Chronic inflammation of the eyelids, or blepharitis, is a frequent cause of eyelid itching. Causes of blepharitis include seborrhea, staphylococcal infection and abnormal function of the oil glands of the eyelids. In addition to eyelid itching, symptoms of blepharitis include eye redness and scratchiness, excessive tearing and burning. The University of Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary reports that blepharitis is a chronic condition, requiring long-term management. Warm compresses and eyelid scrubs are cornerstones of treatment for blepharitis. Oral or topical antibiotics may also be used to control this disorder.
Ocular Rosacea
Rosacea is a chronic disorder characterized by redness and swelling of the skin. The face is the primary site for rosacea, but the ears, scalp, neck, back and chest may also be involved. The American Academy of Dermatology reports that approximately 1/2 of people with rosacea have eye involvement, known as ocular rosacea. Symptoms may include itching, burning, excessive tearing, redness, scratchiness and eye discharge. The surface of the eye itself may be involved with ocular rosacea. The University of Iowa Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences notes that treatment usually involves warm compresses, eyelid scrubs and extended treatment with oral antibiotics.
