Blepharitis is an inflammation or infection of the eyelid. It is
most often caused by bacteria (usually staphylococcus).
Blepharitis causes the edge of the eyelid to
become red and irritated.
Sores may develop on the eyelid, or the
eyeball itself may get red.
The eye may burn and
itch.
Matter may collect in the eye and form a crust on the eyelid
edge and eyelashes overnight.
Treatment for blepharitis includes:
Keeping the eyelids free of crust by cleaning
the area with a mild soap that does not irritate the eyes, such as baby
shampoo.
Applying antibiotic eye ointments. Severe cases of
blepharitis may need to be treated with oral antibiotics (pills).
Author
Debby Golonka, MPH
Editor
Sydney Youngerman-Cole, RN, BSN, RNC
Associate Editor
Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer
Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated
March 15, 2007
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
March 15, 2007
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