BLEPHARITIS
Blepharitis is an eye condition characterized by chronic inflammation of the eyelid. Common symptoms can be as follows:
- Redness of eyelids
- Flaking of skin on eyelids
- Crusting at the eyelid margins
- Itching and/or burning of the eye
- Dryness
- Sensitivity to light
DEMODEX
Demodex is a name given to tiny mites that live in or around the eyelash follicles. Mite infestation is commonly seen in moderate to severe cases of blepharitis, and are the cause of many of the irritative eye symptoms. Patients with oily skin, acne and Rosacea may have an overabundance of Demodex.
EYELID DEEP CLEAN TREATMENT
Hot Compresses
Use a clean washcloth. Soak in hot tap water. Take care not to burn your skin. Place cloth over both eyes and let heat sink into lids for 5 minutes. Repeat when washcloth cools. Start with 5 minutes of hot compresses twice a day.
Lid Scrubs
After the hot compresses, moisten part of the washcloth with baby shampoo (Johnson’s No-tears Baby Shampoo) diluted with warm water. With the eyes closed, scrub the eyelids in a side-to-side motion near the eyelashes to remove oily material and debris. Finish by rinsing the eyes with clean water.
Ointment
If prescribed, an ointment may be applied after the hot compresses and lid scrubs. Place ½ inch of the ointment on the tip of your finger. With your eyelid closed, wipe the ointment over the eyelashes. The ointment prescribed is safe if it gets into the eye. Leave in place overnight.
Doxycycline
If prescribed, doxycycline capsules are helpful in thinning the oily secretions within the eyelid glands to reduce eyelid inflammation. Take one capsule (50-milligrams) each day. Take this medication with food since it can sometimes cause an upset stomach. This medication sometimes takes several months to reach full effect, so refill your prescription if you run out of medication.
