What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is when the edges of your eyelids are inflamed. This means they become red, swollen and irritated. It often affects both eyes and can affect different parts of the eyelids.

Blepharitis is often a long-term condition that can recur. Regular treatment usually helps manage symptoms.

What are the symptoms of blepharitis?

The most common symptoms of blepharitis are redness and swelling on the edges of your eyelids. Other symptoms include:

• feeling like something is in your eye
• crusty or sticky eyelashes
• dry or itchy eyes and eyelids
• thick scales or redness at the edges of your eyelid
• blurred vision
• watery or frothy tears

You may also feel the need to blink frequently or have sensitivity to light.

What causes blepharitis?

The most common cause of blepharitis is a bacterial infection that affects the base of your eyelashes or the glands in your eyelids.

Other causes include:

• viral infections — such as herpes simplex
• allergies — for example to pollen, eye makeup or eye drops
• skin problems — such as dermatitis, dandruff or rosacea (skin redness)
• blocked oil glands at the edge of the eyelids — this can be caused by seborrheic dermatitis or rosacea
• parasite infection — more common in chronic blepharitis

When should I see my doctor?

See your doctor if your symptoms do not improve after a few days of self-care.

Your doctor may take a swab from your eyelid so they can identify the cause of your symptoms and suggest an effective treatment.

How is blepharitis diagnosed?

You doctor will ask about your symptoms and check your eyes. Your doctor may refer you to an eye specialist known as an ophthalmologist.

How is blepharitis treated?

If your doctor has diagnosed blepharitis, there are things you can do at home to relieve your symptoms. Your doctor may also prescribe medicine to treat blepharitis.

Self care

To treat blepharitis at home, eye hygiene is important. Here’s how you can clean your eyes:

1. Wash your hands well.
2. Clean one eye at a time.
3. Use a warm, damp compress (such as a clean face cloth or make-up pad) on your closed eye and rub your eyelid gently for around 2 minutes.
4. You can also mix a few drops of baby shampoo with half a cup of warm water, dip a cotton ball in the solution, and gently rub it over your closed eyelid and lashes.
5. Rinse your eyelid with warm water and dry it gently.
6. Repeat the steps for the other eye using a clean cloth or cotton pad.
7. Clean your eyelids twice a day for 3 to 4 weeks until symptoms get better, then twice a week to keep them clean. If symptoms return, clean daily again.

You can also ask your pharmacist or doctor about eyelid cleaners.

Avoid using contact lenses and eye make-up during treatment, as they can worsen blepharitis.

Medicines

If your doctor suspects an infection, they may prescribe an antibiotic ointment. Antibiotic tablets or liquid may help in severe cases.

They may also recommend lubricating drops or ointments to treat dry eyes.

You may need to continue treatment for weeks or months. Blepharitis symptoms can return, even after it has been treated. Regular treatment over time usually helps manage it. Always talk to your doctor to ask about the best treatment plan for you.

What are the complications of blepharitis?

Blepharitis can cause other conditions such as:

• stye
• chalazion
• dry eye syndrome
• conjunctivitis

Your doctor for advice and treatment plan for these conditions.

Can blepharitis be prevented?

Taking steps to prevent blepharitis can help keep your eyes healthy and comfortable.

• Clean your eyelids regularly and avoid touching your eyes.
• Treat skin problems such as dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis.
• Avoid things that can trigger your symptoms, such as certain eye drops, eye makeup or pollen.
• Use skin care and makeup products that do not irritate your skin or eyes.
• Follow your optometrist's instructions for inserting, wearing and storing your contact lenses.

Resources and support

Visit The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists for more information on eye conditions such as blepharitis.

Read the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital information page on blepharitis.

Learn more about self-care by visiting the Sydney Eye Hospital blepharitis fact sheet.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.