Blepharitis is a condition in which seborrheic dermatitis affects the eye, and it is often the cause of a dry eyelid. The chronic condition usually resists treatment. Blepharitis causes inflammation of the eyelids, and typical symptoms include crusty eyelids, ulcers, pus-filled sacs along the lash line, and the loss of eyelashes. A dry eyelid can develop from a lack of proper eyelid hygiene, hormones, an autoimmune disorder, or a bacterial infection. According to an article published in the May 1, 2000, edition of "The American Family Physician," seborrheic dermatitis affects about 3 percent of the population, but those who recently acquired the condition--or have recurrent episodes--may not know how to treat the unsightly condition.
Eye Cleanser
An appropriate eye cleanser for the eyelids not only removes bacteria and debris on the eyes, but does so without harming the eyes like harsh soaps can. The National Eye Association recommends a lifelong hygiene regimen for patients with a dry eyelid condition that includes washing the eyes with a solution of 1 cup of water with 2 to 3 drops of baby shampoo. A washcloth or cotton swab is dipped into the solution, then used to gently wash the entire eye area including the corners of the eye and the lash edge. Warm water is used to rinse.
Warm Compress
A warm compress can relieve symptoms of dry, painful eyelids. The warm, moist heat softens crusty eyelids and provides moisture. The heat makes it easier to lift off flaky particles and dried pus in the corners of the eye.
Eye Drops
Blepharitis patients can benefit from eye drops for lubricating the eyes and preventing the advancement of drier conditions that affect the eyelids. Eye drops moisturize the eyes and soften hardened crusts that develop from dry pus and ooze from the sebaceous glands. The drops serve as an instant cleanser when thoroughly washing the face is not convenient, such as during work or when traveling. Good Hope, a general eye hospital in Birmingham, recommends using over-the-counter artificial tears because they contain no preservatives, and frequent use--as often as every 30 minutes--will not damage the eyes.
Prescribed Medications
A prescription medication may be the only option that can clear up symptoms, especially if the condition stems from a bacterial infection. The prescribing doctor may take a small sample of pus from the eyelid to find out what type of bacteria caused the condition, and prescribe an appropriate antibiotic. Other prescriptions that a doctor may prescribe for blepharitis include steroid eye drops, corticosteroid or a nonsteroid antihistamine and moisturizer. If the remedy does not work within a few days, a new prescription should be requested from the doctor. It may take a few tries using different types of treatment before the condition clears up and hopefully does not return.
