Treatment
The primary treatment is careful daily cleansing of the edges of the eyelids, to remove the skin oils that the bacteria feed on. Your health care provider might recommend using baby shampoo or special cleansers. Antibiotic ointments may also be helpful in controlling bacteria on the lids.
If seborrheic dermatitis or rosacea are causing the problem, seek treatment for those conditions.
Prognosis (Expectations)
The likely outcome is good with treatment. Continued attention to lid cleanliness may be required to prevent repeated problems. Continued treatment will typically make the eyes less red and more comfortable.
Complications
- Styes
- Chalazia
- Injury to the eye tissue (corneal ulcer) from irritation
- Inflammation of the surface of the eye (conjunctivitis)
- Loss of eyelashes
- Scarring of the eyelids
Calling Your Health Care Provider
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms worsen or do not improve after careful cleansing of the eyelids for several days.
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Blepharitis : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
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Blepharitis : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
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Blepharitis : Treatment
Review Date : 12/12/2008
Reviewed By : A.D.A.M. Editorial Team: David Zieve, MD, MHA, Greg Juhn, MTPW, David R. Eltz. Previously reviewed by Paul B. Griggs, MD, Department of Ophthalmology, Virginia Mason Medical Center, Seattle, WA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (8/22/2008).
