Blepharitis
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Blepharitis
Blepharitis is an inflammation or infection of the eyelid. It is most often caused by bacteria (usually staphylococcus).
- Blepharitis causes the edge of the eyelid to become red and irritated.
- Sores may develop on the eyelid, or the eyeball itself may get red.
- The eye may burn and itch.
- Matter may collect in the eye and form a crust on the eyelid edge and eyelashes overnight.
Treatment for blepharitis includes:
- Keeping the eyelids free of crust by cleaning the area with a mild soap that does not irritate the eyes, such as baby shampoo.
- Applying antibiotic eye ointments. Severe cases of blepharitis may need to be treated with oral antibiotics (pills).
Credits
| Author | Jeannette Curtis |
| Author | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Editor | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS |
| Editor | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA |
| Associate Editor | Tracy Landauer |
| Associate Editor | Pat Truman |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine |
| Primary Medical Reviewer | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Last Updated | May 25, 2007 |
| Last updated: | May 25, 2007 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS |
| Reviewed By: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine |
| Editors: | Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman |
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