Gluten isn’t likely to cause eyelid dermatitis. Eyelid dermatitis is a form of contact dermatitis, an inflammation of the skin resulting when an irritant or allergen comes into contact with your body. Even if you have gluten sensitivities, you won’t develop dermatitis of the eyelids. Instead, you may develop what’s known as dermatitis herpetiformis, which shares some of the same symptoms as contact dermatitis.
Dermatitis Herpetiformis
Although the exact cause of dermatitis herpetiformis isn’t well understood, it’s often linked to gluten sensitivity. When you eat foods containing gluten, this protein found in most grains combines with immunoglobulin A, or IgA, an antibody of the mucosal lining — or the protective membrane of the gastrointestinal tract. Once combined, gluten and IgA enter the bloodstream where they can clog blood vessels near the surface of the skin. This triggers the release of white blood cells that produce chemicals that lead to symptoms of the condition.
Symptoms
Symptoms of dermatitis herpetiformis are somewhat similar to those of contact dermatitis. Most people develop an itchy rash that may be accompanied by bumps or blisters. It predominantly manifests on the elbows, knees, back, buttocks and scalp, but other areas of the body can also be affected, according to the American Osteopathic College of Dermatology. This may include the eyelids.
Treatment
Unlike contact dermatitis, which responds favorably to corticosteroids and antihistamines, you’ll need to take an antibiotic known as dapsone, explains the National Institutes of Health website Medline Plus. Your doctor can prescribe the appropriate dosage for you. You should see an improvement in your symptoms in a matter of days.
Prevention
Preventing dermatitis herpetiformis is much like any other condition associated with gluten sensitivity. You’ll need to restrict gluten from your diet to ensure symptoms don’t return. Gluten is found in foods made from barley, bulgur, durham, farina, rye, semolina, spelt, triticale and wheat. Most manufacturers indicate on the label whether their product contains gluten, making it a little easier to avoid this grain protein. Work with your doctor or dietitian to establish a diet to best suit your needs.
