Blepharitis (Eyelid Disease) in Delray Beach, FL

The upper and lower eyelids contain glands along their margins (or edges) that are integral to tear production. At times, these glands may become blocked or infected, increasing the risk of eyelid disease. Blepharitis is one such condition and is characterized by inflammation of the eyelid margins, or the structures bordering the eye near the lash line. While blepharitis and other eyelid conditions are usually not life-threatening, they can cause symptoms, like crusting, redness, itching, loss of eyelashes, and other concerns. Please contact Rothchild Eye Institute in Delray Beach, FL if you or a family member has symptoms of blepharitis. Our board-certified ophthalmologists offer specialized care in managing eyelid disease and preserving your ocular health.

Blepharitis is typically caused by a combination of factors that affect the oil glands and lash line along the eyelids. Common causes include bacterial overgrowth at the base of the eyelashes, clogged or malfunctioning meibomian glands, and skin conditions like rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis. Allergic reactions to eye makeup, contact lens solutions, or environmental irritants can also contribute to inflammation. In many cases, poor eyelid hygiene plays a major role in triggering or worsening the condition. At Rothchild Eye Institute, our specialists can help identify the specific cause of your blepharitis and develop a personalized treatment plan.

There are factors that could put an individual at higher risk of developing blepharitis. Blepharitis can be caused by an infection, certain skin conditions, or an issue with the gland that produces the oil found in tears. Some other risk factors associated with blepharitis include:

• Diabetes
• Living or working in a dry environment
• Exposure to dust, chemicals, and other irritants
• Not removing makeup properly
• Hormonal changes

Individuals at a higher risk of developing blepharitis should prioritize eyelid and eyelash hygiene, ideally to reduce the risk of developing blepharitis. If you think you may be at a higher risk of developing blepharitis or seeking relief, connect with Rothchild Eye Institute to learn more about this eye condition and blepharitis treatments available to you, like artificial tears.

Blepharitis symptoms vary from person to person, with many patients experiencing symptoms early in the morning. A few of the main symptoms include:

• Sore eyelids
• Itchy eyes
• Sensitivity to light
• Flakes or crusts around the eyelashes
• Red eyes
• Grit or feeling or sand in the eyes
• Blurry vision that improves with blinking
• Watery eyes
• Eyelids that stick together when you wake up

Blepharitis is diagnosed at Rothchild Institute through a comprehensive eye examination conducted by an ophthalmologist. The diagnosis typically involves a careful evaluation of the eyelid margins, the base of the eyelashes, and the oil glands using a slit-lamp microscope. In some cases, a sample of the discharge from the eye may be taken to test for bacteria or fungi. This thorough examination helps determine the presence and severity of blepharitis and guides the appropriate treatment plan.

Blepharitis is generally caused by bacteria residing at the base of the lashes or oil gland disorders. Controlling the growth of these naturally occurring bacteria is often key to reducing flare-ups of the condition. Though there is currently no known cure for blepharitis, its symptoms may be lessened with the following treatment protocols:

• Daily cleansing regimen: Clean your eyelids and face daily with a gentle, hypoallergenic cleanser to minimize bacterial accumulation.
• Warm compresses: Apply a clean washcloth dampened with warm water to your eyes for a couple of minutes. This can help prevent the clogging of oil glands and loosen crusting around the eye.
• Antibiotic eye medications: Our eye specialists may prescribe a prescription ointment to apply to the base of your eyelashes or eye drops to enhance oil production and control other symptoms.
• LipiFlow®: This innovative in-office therapy combines heat and gentle pressure massage to help express clogged meibomian glands in the eyelids. It may be recommended for mild to moderate blepharitis cases.

During your visit, our ophthalmologists will examine your eyelids and determine the severity of blepharitis. Treatment options will then be discussed, which may include a combination of self-care and medicinal therapies.

What happens if blepharitis is left untreated?
While blepharitis cannot be outright cured, it can be treated. If this condition is left untreated, it could lead to more severe eye conditions, such as corneal issues. For this reason, it's important to seek treatment once you notice the signs of blepharitis.

What causes blepharitis?
Though it can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint exactly what has caused this condition, there are a few triggers that often lead to blepharitis. Common causes of this condition include:

• Poor eyelid hygiene
• Excessive oil in the eyelid
• Bacterial infection
• Allergic reaction

What is the difference between blepharitis and conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is an irritation and inflammation of the conjunctiva, a thin layer around the white of the eyes. Blepharitis, on the other hand, is simply an irritation and inflammation of the eyelids. They cause many of the same symptoms, though their locations within the eye are very different.

Can blepharitis affect my vision?
While blepharitis itself doesn’t directly cause permanent vision loss, it can lead to temporary blurred vision, especially during flare-ups. This may be due to excess oil, debris, or inflammation affecting the tear film or irritating the surface of the eye. Most patients notice their vision clears with blinking or treatment, but ongoing symptoms should always be evaluated by an eye specialist.

Is blepharitis contagious?
Blepharitis is generally not considered contagious, particularly when it stems from conditions like rosacea or meibomian gland dysfunction. However, if the inflammation is caused by a bacterial or parasitic infection, it may be possible—though rare—to transmit bacteria through shared eye products or poor hygiene. Practicing good eyelid care can help reduce this risk.

How can I manage blepharitis at home?
Consistent home care is key to managing blepharitis and reducing flare-ups. At-home strategies include gently cleaning your eyelids daily with warm water or a prescribed lid cleanser, applying warm compresses to loosen oil and debris, and avoiding eye makeup during active symptoms. Your ophthalmologist at Rothchild Eye Institute may also recommend using artificial tears or medicated ointments as part of your routine.

While often harmless, blepharitis can cause bothersome symptoms that may interfere with your daily life. At Rothchild Eye Institute, our trusted team of ophthalmologists offers personalized blepharitis treatments to improve your comfort and optimize your eye health. Learn more about your options for treating eyelid disease by scheduling an appointment at our eye center in Delray Beach, FL.