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Definition Blepharitis is a common and persistent inflammation of the eyelids. Blepharitis occurs in two forms: Anterior blepharitis Posterior blepharitis Blepharitis can begin in early childhood, producing granulated eyelids and continuing throughout life as a chronic condition, or it can develop later in life. Causes Blepharitis is mainly caused by bacterial infection. Conjunctivitis is mainly due to infection with viruses or bacteria or an allergic reaction, though other causes exist, such as over exposure to the sun, wind, smog, chlorine, or contact lens solution. Some specific causes of blepharitis may include the following: Rosacea Herpes simplex dermatitis Varicella-zoster dermatitis Molluscum contagiosum Allergic or contact dermatitis Seborrheic dermatitis Staphylococcal dermatitis Symptoms Itching, irritation, red eyes Gritty or sandy feeling Flakes on the lashes The symptoms described above may not necessarily mean that you have blepharitis. However, if you experience one or more of these symptoms, contact your eye doctor for a complete exam. Regardless of which type of blepharitis you have, you will probably have such symptoms as eye irritation, burning, tearing, foreign body sensation, crusty debris (in the lashes, in the corner of the eyes or on the lids), dryness, and red eyelid margins. Treatment The treatment should make your eyes more comfortable, but there is no magic cure. Even with treatment your eyes may remain a little sore, but no harm will come to them and there is nothing to worry about. Cleansing the eyelids is essential to blepharitis treatment. Your doctor will recommend what to clean them with: warm water only, salt water, baby shampoo diluted with warm water or a special over-the-counter product specifically made for cleansing the lids. First wash your hands, then dip a clean washcloth, cotton swab or gauze pad into your cleaning solution. Gently wipe it across your lashes and lid margin. Rinse with cool water. Use a different washcloth, swab or pad for your other eye, and repeat the process. When you first begin treatment, your doctor may have you cleanse your lids several times a day. Later on, he or she will probably instruct you to cleanse them about once a day. If your blepharitis makes your eyes feel dry, the doctor may also prescribe artificial tears or lubricating ointments, or suggest silicone punctal plugs. Sometimes steroids are used to control inflammation, but the potential side effects speak against long-term use.
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Alien writes for Family doctor. He also writes for natural cures and health clinic
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