The human eyes are organs that detect light and convert electro-chemical impulses in the neurons. The eyelid is a thin fold of skin that covers as well as protects the eye. Growing from the eyelid is a row of eyelashes which also serve to protect the eye from dust, foreign debris and perspiration. If you notice a white bump along the edge of your eyelid among the eyelashes you may be suffering from blepharitis.
Types
Blepharitis is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the eyelids. It is sometimes associated with bacterial eye infections, but it can also be attributed to certain types of skin disorders. There are two types of blepharitis; anterior blepharitis, which affects the outside front of the eyelid where eyelashes are attached, and posterior blepharitis, which takes place within the eyelids and is linked to the dysfunction of the meibomian glands that secrete oils to lubricate the eye.
Causes
The bacteria staphylococcal blepharits is the most common cause for anterior blepharitis, but the condition can also be the result of seborrheic blepharitis, or dandruff of the scalp and eyebrows. Irregular oil production by the meibomian blepharitis or glands of the eyelids can lead to posterior blepharitis due to the creation of a favorable environment for bacterial growth. Skin conditions such as acne rosacea and scalp dandruff can also lead to posterior blepharitis.
Symptoms
In some individuals blepharitis causes only minor irritation and itching. Individuals experiencing either form of blepharitis may suffer from a burning sensation, a gritty feeling or the sensation of a foreign body in the eye, itching, excessive tearing, red and swollen eyelids. Symptoms such as redness of the eye, blurred vision, a sensitivity to light, frothy tears and a crusting of the eyes or eyelashes are also common. More severe symptoms include missing or misdirected eyelashes and an inflammation of eye tissues, most typically the cornea.
Related Conditions
An acute infection of the oil gland of the eyelid can lead to a stye, a red tender bump on the eyelid. Following the development of a stye, a painless and firm lump known as a chalazion may appear. This lump is caused by the inflammation of the oil glands of the eye and can become painful and red if an infection is present. A decrease in oil secretions can lead to excess tearing of dry eye and may put you at risk for corneal infections.
Treatment
In both forms of blepharitis it is important to keep the eyelids and eyelashes clean and free of crust. A simple at-home treatment consists of applying a warm washcloth to the affected area several times to clear oil ducts. Take a combination of water and baby shampoo and massage over the eyelashes to further clean the area. Repeat this treatment as needed, and if the condition persist or worsens, contact your eye doctor immediately.
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