What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a common eye condition where the eyelids get inflamed or irritated due to blocked oil glands. There are two types: one caused by bacteria or allergies (anterior blepharitis) and the other related to meibomian gland dysfunction (posterior blepharitis).

Symptoms include

  • Watery or dry eyes

  • Redness

  • Itching

  • Debris near eyelashes

  • Sensitivity to light

Treatment Options:

Treatment involves warm compresses, gentle eyelid cleaning, and avoiding eye makeup. In severe cases, doctors may prescribe antibiotics, corticosteroids, or meibomian gland expression done in office. Proper management and care is essential to reduce discomfort and prevent complications. If you have any eye discomfort or vision changes, consult an eye doctor promptly.

Lid scrubs: You can use an over-the-counter eyelid cleanser (Ocusoft® or Sterilid®)* or dilute tear-free, hypoallergenic Baby shampoo with a Q-tip or washcloth and gently scrub your eyelashes with your eyes closed. Lather the shampoo so it is soapy white before using it on your eyelashes. Wash with warm water.  

Warm compresses: You can use an over-the-counter gel pack. Heat as directed by the packaging instructions. Test the pack on the back of your hand to ensure it is warm and tolerable to touch, and not scalding. Place gently on closed eyes and remove when cool. 

Do not use any red eye relief drops (Visine®, Clear Eyes®, Rohto® etc) as they can mask underlying eye problems, and lead to “rebound redness” and or dependency, making the redness worse.

 

What is Dry Eye Syndrome?

Dry eye syndrome is a common eye problem that happens when your eyes don't make enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. Tears are crucial for keeping your eyes healthy and comfortable. When you have dry eyes, it may feel like something is in your eye, and you might experience stinging, burning, mild pain, or itching.

Your eyes may also become red, sensitive to light, and your vision may get blurry. Using artificial tears or making changes like taking breaks from screens can help ease the discomfort. If you have persistent dry eye symptoms, it's important to see an eye doctor for proper evaluation and treatment.

Treatment Options:

Artificial Tears: Use preservative-free artificial tears 3-4 times per day or more frequently as needed. (You can use regular artificial tears with preservatives if you are only taking them 1-2 times per day.)*
Artificial tears can be used 5 minutes after prescription eye drops to minimize potential irritation or other side effects.

Artificial Tear Ointment: Apply the ointment to the edge of your eyelids (right at the lashes) (after the warm compress treatment) before you go to sleep. *
Suggestions for Artificial Tears and Ointment: Blink®, GenTeal®, Refresh®, Soothe® and Systane®.