Blepharitis Flashcards
What is blepharitis?
Inflammation of the eyelid margins
It can be due to meibomian gland dysfunction or seborrhoeic dermatitis/staphylococcal infection.
What are the two common types of blepharitis?
- Posterior blepharitis (meibomian gland dysfunction)
- Anterior blepharitis (seborrhoeic dermatitis/staphylococcal infection)
Anterior blepharitis is less common than posterior.
In which condition is blepharitis more common?
Rosacea
Patients with rosacea are at higher risk for developing blepharitis.
What is the function of the meibomian glands?
Secrete oil onto the eye surface to prevent rapid evaporation of the tear film
Dysfunction of these glands can lead to dry eyes and irritation.
What are common symptoms of blepharitis?
- Bilateral symptoms
- Grittiness and discomfort around eyelid margins
- Sticky eyes in the morning
- Red eyelid margins
- Swollen eyelids (in staphylococcal blepharitis)
- Increased occurrence of styes and chalazions
- Possible secondary conjunctivitis
Symptoms can vary in severity among patients.
What is a recommended management technique for blepharitis?
Softening of the lid margin using hot compresses twice a day
This helps alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
What is ‘lid hygiene’ in the context of blepharitis management?
Mechanical removal of debris from lid margins
This can help reduce irritation and symptoms.
What mixture is often used for lid hygiene?
Cotton wool buds dipped in a mixture of cooled boiled water and baby shampoo
This method helps clean the eyelid margins effectively.
What is an alternative solution for lid hygiene?
Sodium bicarbonate mixed with cooled boiled water
A teaspoonful in a cup of cooled water that has recently been boiled can be used.
What can be given for symptom relief in patients with dry eyes or an abnormal tear film?
Artificial tears
They help to lubricate the eyes and alleviate dryness.
