What is blepharitis?
Blepharitis consists of inflammation along the edge of the eyelid and can be categorised as anterior, posterior or mixed.
BLEPHARITIS
inflammation of the eyelid
Causes of blepharitis
There are various different causes of blepharitis, although the main cause is meibomian gland dysfunction. These glands are responsible for producing the lipid content in tears to give them stability and to prevent them from evaporating quickly. An obstruction of these glands, an over-population of bacteria that secrete exotoxins or excess oil production will all lead to blepharitis.
Blepharitis is also associated with mites known as Demodex. For diagnosis and specific treatment, a thorough clinical examination is needed as well as a microscope examination of the microorganism after taking a sample from the eyelid. Other related conditions include rosacea and atopic dermatitis.
BLEPHARITIS SYMPTOMS
Patients with blepharitis generally present:
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- Red edge of the eyelid.
- Irritation and stinging sensation of the eye.
- Feeling that there is something in the eye.
- Flakes on the edge of the eyelid.
- Drooping of the eyelid.
Blepharitis is also associated with recurring styes and dry eyes as it will lead to instability of the tear film and lower the quality of the tears.
BLEPHARITIS TREATMENT
When it comes to treating blepharitis, the most important thing is to ensure proper eyelid hygiene. However, sometimes this is not enough. At Clínica Rahhal, we have state-of-the-art technology to solve this condition that can lower the patient’s quality of life. Pulsed light is a treatment that aims to re-establish the normal functioning of the meibomian glands, thereby going directly to the source of the disorder. The LipiFlow® system is also another option that seeks to restore the normal functioning of these glands. This treatment is preferable in cases where the oil secreted is too thick and is blocking it from leaving the gland. It is also important to treat the accompanying dry eye if present through the use of artificial tears or autologous serum and plasma rich in growth factors in cases where it is more severe.
ADVANCED MEDICAL TEAM
At CLÍNICA RAHHAL, we have state-of-the-art technological equipment which, combined with our teamwork, ensures the best results.
“I have been going to Rahhal for many years with my entire family because of the quality of the service and the family-friendly atmosphere that the whole team provides”.
Álvaro Lluch.
“Besides his professionalism, you can see that Dr Rahhal enjoys his work and is happy doing it. I went to him for an initial consultation and have never thought about going to another clinic. I am truly delighted”.
Marisa.
“I have been a patient for some time and I am delighted with them. The staff are attentive and very professional, not to mention the excellent facilities”.
Esther Herranz.
WE FINANCE YOUR TREATMENT
TO MAKE LIFE EASIER
At CLÍNICA RAHHAL, we don’t want our patients to have to break the bank to see, which is why we ensure our cataract surgery treatments are affordable for them.
WHAT IS BLEPHARITIS
And other frequently asked questions
Select one of the following frequently-asked questions from our patients to show the answer. If you cannot find the answer to your question, please contact us using the form below.
Could blepharitis be the cause of my red eye?
Of course. Blepharitis can lead to a reddening of the edge of the eyelid along with “flakes” on the eyelids, which may or may not bring discomfort.
Could blepharitis be the cause of my dry eye?
Blepharitis is in fact one of the main causes of dry eyes, as the glands that secrete the lipid component of tears are affected in these patients.
Is blepharitis a chronic disorder?
Blepharitis is a condition that tends to become chronic. However, with the right treatment, the symptoms can be managed and minimised.
Is it normal to have seasons when it is worse?
Yes. Like many other conditions in our bodies, blepharitis will get worse at certain seasons of the year, in response to stress, as a result of hormone changes, etc.
Why have I now been diagnosed with blepharitis even though I have not had it before?
Blepharitis usually gets worse as we get older, so it is not strange that something that has never caused us problems before and which we were not even aware of is now starting to cause discomfort.
Does it have serious consequences?
In most cases, blepharitis leads to non-severe symptoms such as a stinging sensation or dry eyes. However, sometimes it can be linked to significant consequences, such as scarring and inflammation of the cornea, putting the patient’s vision quality at risk.
Initial consultation
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