Home Page

HOME PAGE WHY USE HCF EYECARE? ORDER CONTACT LENSES EYE CONDITIONS OUR GUARANTEES FUN STUFF OUR LOCATIONS FEEDBACK SURVEY CONTACT US CAREER OPPORTUNITIES WHAT'S NEW?
CONTACT LENS SEARCH

SITE SEARCH
Enter your Search text
Blepharitis
What is blepharitis?
  • It causes inflammation of the eyelids
  • It usually affects both eyes
  • It's a common, annoying and recurring condition
What causes blepharitis?
  • A skin condition such as acne rosacea (oil gland malfunction)
  • A bacterial infection (staphylococcus)
  • Eye make-up, through an allergic reaction
What are the signs of blepharitis?
  • Dry, sore or red eyes
  • Burning, itching or the feeling that something is in your eye
  • An oily discharge or scaly, thickened skin around your eyelids
Types of blepharitis
  • Seborrheic blepharitis is associated with overactive sebaceous (oil) glands. Also linked with dandruff, asthma, allergies or acne rosacea
  • Infective blepharitis is often caused by staphylococcus, a type of bacteria
  • Meibomian gland dysfunction is when the glands at the back of the eyelids become clogged
How is blepharitis detected? An optometrist will use a special microscope called a slitlamp to classify the type of blepharitis present. Is blepharitis contagious? Yes, so care needs to be taken to stop the infection from spreading to your other eye or to other people. You should avoid cosmetics and wash your
  • hands before touching your eyelids
  • hair and face daily
  • eyelids nightly
Treatment: Blepharitis is usually a long-term condition needing ongoing maintenance, in the form of:
  • A simple cleaning regime
  • Not using make-up
Cleaning regime
  • Use a clean, warmed washcloth daily to soften the substances on the eyelids.Your optometrist will recommend the right cleansing solution for you to use and advise you on how to gently massage it into the eyes using a clean finger or cotton bud
  • If eye drops or ointments are necessary, they should be applied after both the warming and cleansing steps
Visit our Centre or call us on (02) 9290 0199 if you are concerned about Blephartis.