Blepharitis is a condition that results in redness and swelling of the margin of your eyelid or inflammation of your entire lid. Other symptoms may include eye irritation, excessive tearing and dandruff-like flakes in their eyelashes. If you have these or other symptoms, talk with your doctor to determine the cause. Do not stop taking medications unless directed by your doctor since blepharitis does not result from the use of medications or supplements such as glucosamine.
Glucosamine
Your body naturally produces glucosamine, a substance that makes up cartilage. The cartilage helps cushion your joints during movement, and as the cartilage wears down, you may experience pain. Some people believe glucosamine supplements will ease discomfort and slow the breakdown of the cartilage. Glucosamine -- neither the substance produced in your body nor the supplement -- does not have any known effect on blepharitis or any other eye condition.
Causes
A bacterial infection is one of the causes of blepharitis. Some people may also have this condition as a result of a skin condition called seborrheic dermatitis, which produces dandruff in the eyebrows and eyelashes. This dandruff may irritate eyelid margins and the surface of the eye. Other causes include an allergy to cosmetics or other eye-related products. Many people with rosacea, a skin condition that causes redness and irritation, also have episodes of blepharitis.
Treatment
If you have symptoms of blepharitis, contact your doctor. Treatment may include medicated eye drops, or your doctor may recommend artificial tears to relieve surface irritations. If you have rosacea, a condition that affects your skin, your doctor may treat this condition to help relieve your eye symptoms. In many cases, however, gently cleaning your eyelids will gradually resolve blepharitis. Your doctor will explain the best way to clean your lids. Many doctors recommend diluting baby shampoo in warm water and using this to gently rub into your eyelashes. Your doctor may determine a different product or method better suited to your particular needs.
Considerations
If your doctor recommends a glucosamine supplement, do not stop taking this supplement without first consulting with your doctor. Glucosamine is not likely to result in side effects involving your eye, but using glucosamine could cause side effects such as heartburn and gastric upset. If you experience any discomfort, redness or other eye-related symptoms, contact your doctor. She will examine your eyes and help you determine the cause for the changes.
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