More than 10% of the general population exhibits dermatologic characteristics of rosacea, of these, more than half will be impacted by ocular complications.

Ocular rosacea is a common eye condition that causes dry eye. While there is a lot of published research about ocular rosacea, a cure still has not been found. However, there are ways an eye doctor can help you manage this condition, so that the eyes can receive the relief they need.

If you experience dry eyes it may be due to ocular rosacea.

What is ocular rosacea?

Ocular rosacea is a common inflammatory eye condition that causes redness, itching, and a burning sensation around the eyes.

Ocular rosacea mainly affects people after the age of 50, but reports of this condition affecting people even in their 30s and 40s is not uncommon.

The primary parts of the eyes that are affected are the eyelids, conjunctiva and occasionally the cornea.

This condition may present itself as various eye conditions such as chronic blepharitis, corneal vascularization, and meibomian gland dysfunction.

Causes of ocular rosacea

Researchers aren’t sure of the exact reason as to why ocular rosacea happens however, they have found that 85% of people with ocular rosacea have blocked oil glands at the edges of their eyelids. Blocked meibomian glands, that produce the oil in the tears, can be successfully treated.

When these tiny glands are blocked the result is infection or inflammation of the margins of the eyelids area causing irritated, red and swollen eyelids This then leads to crusty eyelashes and even sore and itchy sensations in the eyes.

Other factors causing ocular rosacea include:

• Heredity
• Eyelash mites, known as Demodex
• Blocked glands in the eyelids
• Bacterial involvement
• Environmental factors

Can ocular rosacea be prevented?

Research has shown that avoiding certain irritants can help reduce the likelihood of aggravating ocular rosacea. These include:

• Alcohol
• Hot baths or saunas
• Spicy or hot foods or beverages
• Strenuous exercise
• Wind, sunlight, or extreme temperatures

Signs and symptoms of ocular rosacea

Ocular rosacea symptoms are usually similar to dry eye. The eyes may experience or feel the following:

• Blurred vision
• Itchy, red, burning, or watery
• Swollen, red eyelids
• Gritty or the feeling of having a foreign body in one or both eyes
• Recurrent eye or eyelid infections
• Sensitivity to light (photophobia)
• Small dilated blood vessels on the front of the eye

Contact an eye doctor near you that can conduct eye exams to diagnose and treat ocular rosacea.

SEE RELATED: Treatments for Eye Floaters

Treatment for ocular rosacea

Home eye care and medications can usually help to reduce the symptoms of ocular rosacea, however, these steps may not cure the condition. Treatment to help reduce symptoms may include:

• Antibiotics
• A warm moist compress applied to the eyelids
• Eye drops
• Ointments with steroids
• Probing, thin rods are used to unplug the glands allowing more oil to flow

In rare cases, if not treated, severe ocular rosacea can cause serious eye problems affecting one’s vision. This can be either scarring in the eyelids or damage on the cornea.

Tips to prevent flare ups

To help manage ocular rosacea following a good eye care routine to help prevent flare-ups.

• At least twice a day, wash the eyelids gently with warm water or a product the eye doctor recommended. This will keep the eyelids clean.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses during flare-ups.
• Avoid makeup. If the eyes are inflamed, makeup can irritate them.
• Avoid things that worsen or trigger ocular rosacea to prevent flare-ups. Items that tend to dilate blood vessels in the face include hot, spicy foods and alcoholic beverages.

LEARN MORE:  Guide to Eye Conditions

If you believe you have ocular rosacea, contact an eye doctor near you to schedule an appointment, so that you discuss ways to prevent flare-ups and receive treatment to alleviate any symptoms you may be experiencing.

The post Ocular Rosacea appeared first on Optometrists.org.

Dry eye syndrome is a common condition that results from insufficient tear quantity or inadequate tear quality.

Our tears are responsible for lubricating our eyes to keep them healthy and nourished. The tear film consists of three components: oil, water, and mucus. Each of these components is essential to maintain the quality and quantity of the tears.

A problem within any of these essential components can cause an imbalance within the tear film and affect tear production— consequently leading to dry eye syndrome (DES).

Approximately 80 percent of DES cases are caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

The meibomian glands are the oil glands that line the edges of your upper and lower eyelids, at the base of your eyelashes. These glands secrete the oil (meibum) that coats the eyes and tear film, to prevent the tears from evaporating too quickly.

Meibomian gland dysfunction is a common condition that occurs when the meibomian glands become blocked with thick secretions, preventing oil from flowing freely into the tear film and affecting its quality as well.

When MGD becomes a chronic problem, it can cause permanent damage to the tear film and lead to DES.

If you have MGD contact an eye doctor near you who can help manage your MGD.

SEE RELATED: Why Do My Eyes Feel Gritty?

How does IPL therapy treat DES? 

Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy is a painless, in-office treatment that effectively treats the underlying cause of DES. 

During this procedure, gentle pulses of light are delivered to the skin adjacent to the eyes to reduce inflammation and eliminate any bacterial infection. These pulses melt the thick secretions on the eyelids, release the buildup of oil, and unclog the meibomian glands.

This specialized treatment stimulates the natural flow of oil into the tears, stabilizes the tear film and improves dry eye symptoms. 

What to expect during your IPL treatment

Before beginning the IPL treatment, your doctor will place eye shields over your eyelids to protect them from the bright light pulses. A thin layer of cooling gel will also be applied to the skin around your eyes to protect that sensitive area as well.

Your doctor will then hold a small device over your eyelids to administer the pulses of light. The heat from the light pulses will then lead to the melting of the thick, crusty secretions blocking your oil glands.

After the IPL has successfully opened your meibomian glands, your doctor may also express a small amount of oil from the glands in your eyelids to stimulate normal oil flow.

What to expect after your IPL treatment

Most patients will notice an improvement in their dry eye symptoms following their first or second IPL treatment. However, it is generally recommended to return for additional treatments on a monthly basis for a four month period to ensure optimal results.

For severe DES, additional treatments may be recommended to maintain healthy meibomian gland function and prevent the condition from recurring.

Some eye doctors recommend IPL therapy in combination with other dry eye treatments for even greater success and dry eye relief.

Is IPL therapy right for you?

If you are experiencing chronic dry eye symptoms that are affecting your productivity and quality of life, your eye doctor may recommend IPL therapy.

Intense pulsed light therapy is used to treat the underlying cause of DES to ensure long lasting relief from your uncomfortable symptoms.

While artificial tears, warm compresses, and eyelid scrubs can help to soothe your dry eyes, they may only provide short term relief and are most effective for mild to moderate dry eye conditions.

LEARN MORE:  Guide to Eye Conditions

Dry eye syndrome does not have to be a condition you learn to live with. Contact an eye doctor about IPL therapy to get the help you need for a lifetime of healthy, comfortable eyes and vision.

The post Dry Eyes: What Is Intense Pulsed Light Therapy?  appeared first on Optometrists.org.

Gritty eyes can be caused by a number of eye conditions, including dry eye syndrome, blepharitis, sjogren’s syndrome, or even sunburned eyes.

If you are experiencing a gritty sensation in your eyes, schedule an eye exam to determine the cause of your symptoms and receive an appropriate treatment plan.

SEE RELATED: Why Do My Eyes Feel Sore?

Dry eye syndrome (DES)

Dry eye syndrome is the most common cause of gritty eyes. 

A diminished quantity or quality of tears can cause your eyes to become dry, itchy, irritated and sore.

Healthy tears consist of three elements: oil, mucus, and water. If any of these elements are compromised, it can affect the quality of your tear film and cause your tears to evaporate too quickly. If either of these problems occur, dry eye symptoms will result.

Dry eye syndrome is a chronic condition that can be hereditary or caused by hormonal changes, lifestyle habits, certain medications, LASIK surgery, or the natural aging process.

If DES is causing the gritty sensation you are experiencing, your eye doctor may recommend an artificial tears eye drop, gel, or ointment to increase the moisture in your eyes and alleviate your symptoms.

Medicated eye drops that increase natural tear production may also be prescribed for moderate to severe dry eye symptoms. For acute cases, a steroid eye drop may be prescribed in combination with a medicated eye drop to provide short-term relief of severe dry eyes.

For chronic or severe dry eyes, your eye doctor may recommend a specialized in-office dry eye treatment. There is a wide range of treatment procedures that have been proven effective in treating the underlying cause of dry, gritty eyes.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is one of the most common eye conditions marked by an inflammation of the eyelids.

Blepharitis generally develops when the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes become blocked. It is commonly caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), but can also develop from a bacterial infection or skin condition such as dandruff of the scalp or rosacea.

Grittiness is a common symptom of blepharitis, along with swollen eyelids, and red, irritated, itchy eyes. 

An appropriate treatment plan will be determined based on the type of infection that has caused the blepharitis.

To effectively treat blepharitis, it is important to keep your eyelids clean. Wash your eyelids and eyelashes every night with a mild soap recommended by your eye doctor to soften any buildup of debris and wash away any crusty discharge.

In-office eyelid hygiene procedures, such as eyelid margin cleaning, intense pulsed light (IPL), thermal pulsation, and blephex treatments are often recommended to effectively eliminate the infection and relieve your uncomfortable symptoms.

Your eye doctor may also prescribe medicated eye drops or ointments or oral medication to help clear the infection. In some cases, a steroid eye drop may be prescribed to reduce inflammation.

When the inflammation is treated, your eyes will feel more comfortable and the gritty sensation will disappear.

Sjogren’s syndrome

Sjogren’s syndrome is an autoimmune disease that damages the tear and saliva producing glands— causing dry eyes and a dry mouth.

Along with dry eyes, comes a gritty sensation, burning in or around the eyes, light sensitivity, red eyes, and blurry vision.

To relieve your dry eye symptoms, your eye doctor may recommend an artificial tears eye drop, gel or ointment to help keep your eyes moist throughout the day. A medicated eye drop may also be prescribed to encourage natural tear production.

In some cases, medications to treat Sjorgren’s syndrome may also improve your dry eye symptoms.

Sunburned eyes (photokeratitis)

A day in the sun without the right eye protection can lead to sunburned eyes.

Sunburned eyes appear red or bloodshot, and typically cause a gritty sensation along with light sensitivity and blurred vision. 

While photokeratitis generally does not cause any long term eye damage, it should be looked at by an eye doctor.

To alleviate your discomfort, your eye doctor may recommend using an artificial tears eye drop, gel, or ointment to lubricate your eyes and sooth the burn. For severe sunburns, an anti-inflammatory eye drop may be prescribed.

Photokeratitis generally fades after a couple of days, and the gritty sensation in your eyes should disappear as well. If you don’t notice any improvement after several days, contact your eye doctor.

If your eyes feel gritty and irritated, don’t wait for the sensation to go away on its own. There are a range of effective treatments that can offer you quick relief.

LEARN MORE:  Guide to Eye Conditions

Schedule an appointment with an eye doctor to get the treatment you need to help your eyes feel comfortable again.

The post Why Do My Eyes Feel Gritty? appeared first on Optometrists.org.

Recent studies show up that to 59 percent of all adults show at least one symptom of MGD.

What is meibomian gland dysfunction?

The meibomian glands are the tiny pores that line the upper and lower eyelid margins. These glands produce the oil (meibum) that contributes to your eye’s tear film and provides constant lubrication to keep your eye healthy.

Meibum is an essential part of your eye’s tear film as it prevents your tears from evaporating too quickly.

Meibomian gland dysfunction occurs when the oil glands become blocked or clogged with thick secretions, preventing a normal flow of oil. 

As a result, the quality of the oil that flows through these glands may be poor and lead to eye irritation and a crusty discharge.

Meibomian gland dysfunction often does not present with any symptoms in its early stages. However, if the condition progresses without treatment, it can cause eyelid inflammation (blepharitis) and dry eye symptoms.

When MGD becomes a chronic problem, normal oil secretion becomes impossible— which can lead to permanent damage in the tear film, as well as dry eye syndrome.

Common symptoms of MGD

• Dry eyes
• Burning sensation in or around the eyes
• Itchy eyes
• Red eyes
• Crusty discharge in the corner of the eyes
• Watery eyes
• Blurred vision
• Light sensitivity
• Chalazia/styes
• Foreign body sensation in the eyes

If you experience any of these symptoms contact an eye doctor near you.

SEE RELATED: Do I Have Blepharitis?

How is MGD treated? 

Meibomian gland dysfunction can be treated with a variety of medications and in-office procedures. Depending on the severity of your symptoms, your eye doctor may recommend a combination of treatments to ensure optimal results.

Restasis prescription eye drops are prescribed for severe dry eye symptoms. These medicated eye drops help to increase oil production and tear quantity.

Steroid eye drops are generally prescribed in combination with medicated eye drops. These drops reduce eyelid inflammation to improve the flow of oils into the eyes.

LipiFlow is a medical device that opens the meibomian glands and improves oil production by using a combination of heat and gentle eyelid massage.

TearCare is a procedure in which heating patches are applied to the external eyelids and connected to a handheld heating device. This device melts the waxy build up of secretions in order to unclog the meibomian glands and improve oil flow.

iLUX is a portable, hand-held, LED-based heating device used to warm the inner and outer surfaces of the eyelids. The iLUX works by melting the build up of waxy secretions blocking the meibomian glands to improve oil flow.

Intense pulsed light (IPL) uses specific wavelengths of light to interact with the blood vessels on the face adjacent to the eyes and eyelids. This process reduces eyelid inflammation and bacterial overgrowth that may be causing your MGD. Several treatments over a period of a few months are generally required to see optimal results.

Blephex involves a hand-held device that gently exfoliates the eyelid margins to eliminate bacterial debris and open the meibomian glands. When the inflammation is treated, your overall eyelid health can improve.

Lid debridement may be performed to clean the debris and keratin from your eyelid margins and unclog the meibomian glands. This is performed by your eye doctor using a specialized hand-held device.

Blephasteam is an eyelid-warming medical device that resembles  a pair of swimming goggles. This device helps to relieve symptoms of MGD by unblocking the meibomian glands. Blephasteam is electronically controlled in order to maintain a constant and effective temperature throughout the treatment procedure.

While MGD can cause significant discomfort and dry eyes, it can be effectively treated, especially if detected early.

LEARN MORE:  Guide to Eye Conditions

Schedule an appointment with your optometrist to determine which MGD treatment can alleviate your symptoms and help your eyes to feel more comfortable.

The post How Is Meibomian Gland Dysfunction Treated? appeared first on Optometrists.org.

If you are experiencing any eye discomfort, visit your eye doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

There are many eye conditions that cause sore eyes.

Dry eye syndrome (DES)

Dry eye syndrome (DES) is the most common cause of sore eyes. Healthy tears consist of a combination of oil, mucus and water. When one of these components is missing, or their quality or quantity are reduced, the eyes can become dry, irritated, or sore.

Conjunctivitis (Pink eye)

Conjunctivitis, commonly called pink eye, is a highly contagious infection caused by a virus or bacteria in the eye. Pink eye can affect either one or both eyes, and cause the eyes to burn, itch, or feel sore.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids that causes red, sore and itchy eyelids, and is commonly marked by a crusty debris on the eyelash margins. Blepharitis may also cause the eyes to burn or sting, resulting in uncomfortable sore eyes.

There are also environmental factors that cause sore eyes.

Allergies

Allergens in the air, such as pollen, mold, and pet dander can cause your eyes to become dry, itchy, watery, and sore.

Foreign particle in your eye

When small foreign particles such as dust, dirt, and sand blow into the eye, they can get stuck under your eyelid or the corner of your eye. Not only does this cause pain and discomfort, but it can also cause a significant amount of burning and soreness that may last several minutes.

If you experience eye pain or vision loss, contact an eye doctor near you, who can diagnose and treat the condition.

SEE RELATED: Why Do My Eyes Feel Gritty?

Chemicals

Certain chemicals found in household cleaning products, such as aerosol sprays and disinfectants can be irritating to your eyes and cause them to burn or feel sore.

Note: It is important to wear eye protection and gloves when using any type of cleaning product to reduce your risk of an eye injury caused by accidental eye contact. Avoid touching your eyes or face until you have washed your hands thoroughly and put the cleaning product away.

Fragrances

Sensitivity to certain fragrances, such as perfume, cologne, skin cream, and even shampoo can cause eye irritation and even temporary sore eyes.

How to relieve sore eyes

Below is a list of some tips and lifestyle changes that could help relieve sore eyes and improve your quality of life.

Note: It is important to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor if you are experiencing significant discomfort. Your eye doctor will carefully diagnose the cause of your discomfort and prescribe an effective treatment plan.

• Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your body healthy and your eyes hydrated.
• Remove contact lenses. If your eyes are irritated and sore, remove your contact lenses until your eye doctor has instructed that it is safe to begin wearing them again. Contact lenses can further irritate your sore eyes and lead to serious complications if proper care is not taken.
• Avoid allergens. Stay away from known allergens to reduce eye allergies and discomfort.
• Wear sunglasses. Protect your eyes with sunglasses whenever possible. Sunglasses will not only provide you with UV protection, but can also reduce the chances of a small foreign particle blowing into your eyes.
• Remove makeup. Wash off your eye makeup every night before going to bed to eliminate dirt and debris from your eyelids and eyelashes and reduce your chances of developing blepharitis.
• Clean your eyelids. Clean your eyelids daily with a gentle scrub or baby shampoo to ensure that your eyelid glands remain clear and healthy. This will ensure that your tear film remains healthy and balanced and will reduce your chances of dry eye symptoms.

LEARN MORE:  Guide to Eye Conditions

Schedule an appointment with an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam, and to discuss any questions you may have about treating your sore eyes.

Comfortable eyes will not only improve your vision, but will also enable you to enjoy the activities you love, without the distraction of sore eyes. 

The post Why Do My Eyes Feel Sore? appeared first on Optometrists.org.

Disclaimer: These tips are not a substitute for professional medical advice from your optometrist. If you suffer from chronic or severe dry eyes or experience any eye pain, contact your eye doctor.

Common dry eye symptoms

• Red eyes
• Burning or stinging in eyes
• Itchy eyes
• Foreign body sensation
• Light sensitivity
• Contact lens discomfort
• Blurry vision
• Eye fatigue

How to prevent winter dry eyes

1. Blink often. Blinking helps to keep the eyes lubricated and healthy. When we blink, the eyelids spread the tears over the front of the eyes, continuously redistributing the tear film to ensure that the eyes remain hydrated and moist.
2. Try artificial tears. Artificial tears act as a substitute for your natural tears, when your eyes cannot produce enough fluid to maintain moisture. These over-the-counter eye drops or ointments can help relieve mild dry eye symptoms. They can be used as often as needed to increase eye moisture and comfort.

Caution: Avoid using eye drops that claim to remove eye redness, as these drops may help temporarily, but in the long run can actually worsen dry eyes.

3. Clean your eyelids. Your eyelids contain tiny oil producing glands. This oil (meibum) contributes to the tear film, maintaining the tears and ensuring that they do not evaporate too quickly. Cleaning your eyelids from makeup and debris on a daily basis will help to keep your oil producing glands healthy and prevent them from becoming clogged.
4. Warm compresses every night. Warm, wet compresses can help to soothe dry eye symptoms and open any blocked oil glands in the eyelids. Make this part of your bedtime routine to improve eye moisture and help you to relax after a long hard day.
5. Use a humidifier. Dry heat can cause your tears to evaporate more quickly and worsen dry eye symptoms. To protect your eyes (and skin) from drying out, keep a humidifier on throughout the night. Some humidifiers can even be perched on your desk at work, helping to protect your eyes while you’re at the office too.
6. Drink plenty of water. Drinking water throughout the day is not only healthy, but also helps to keep your skin and eyes hydrated. If water doesn’t appeal to you, try adding lemon or brewing some herbal tea.

Please note: While we live in a fast paced world where coffee is one of the most popular beverages, be mindful of your daily caffeine intake because caffeine is a diuretic and can actually worsen your dry eye symptoms.

7. Wear sunglasses outdoors. Sunglasses with polarized lenses will shield your eyes from harsh winter winds that can cause dry eyes, and harmful UV rays that continue to radiate from the sun even when it’s cloudy outside.
8. Visit your optometrist. If your eyes have the tendency to become severely dry or irritated, visit your optometrist before the winter weather sets in. Your eye doctor can discuss the different treatment options that are available to you, including prescription medication and in-office treatments.

Winter dry eyes can be quite uncomfortable and greatly impact your performance of daily activities. Follow these 8 tips to help your eyes stay moist and comfortable this season— you can even include them in your New Year’s resolutions.

The post 8 Ways to Prevent Winter Dry Eyes appeared first on Optometrists.org.

Dry eye can be a symptom related to many different conditions, but is commonly caused by a condition called blepharitis. Blepharitis occurs when the oil glands located on the edge of the eyelids are blocked with dirt and debris— preventing the oil from flowing naturally into the tear film. The oil is an essential part of the tear film, as it helps to maintain the moisture in the eyes by preventing the tears from evaporating too quickly.

When the tears evaporate before new tears are produced, dry eye symptoms will result.

Cleaning your eyelids everyday, especially if you wear makeup, can improve your dry eye symptoms, and prevent dry eyes from getting worse.

How to effectively clean your eyelids

Cleaning your eyelids on a daily basis is an easy and effective way to ensure that your eyelid’s oil glands remain clear.

• Wash your hands with warm, soapy water.
• Place a small amount of lid cleaner (recommended by your eye doctor) on a soft cotton pad.
• Close your eyes.
• Gently wipe the cotton pad across your top lashes in circular and horizontal motions for 10-20 seconds, ensuring that you reach every part of your eyelid.
• Repeat for your lower lashes with a different cotton pad.
• Rinse your eyes with water.

You can also apply a warm compress to your eyes to loosen any crust from your eyelashes, before beginning this regimen.

Follow this eye care routine as recommended by your eye doctor, typically up to four times a day during flare-ups, and twice a day to keep your symptoms under control.

BlephEx

Blephex is an in-office procedure that relieves chronic dry eye symptoms by eliminating the bacterial debris from the eyelids.

Blephex treatments improve tear production and relieve dry eye symptoms associated with blepharitis. When the inflammation from blepharitis is treated, your overall eyelid health will generally improve.

Benefits of Blephex treatments:

• Removes bacteria, biofilm, toxins, and debris
• Cleans eyelids
• Eyelids remain clean with regular treatments
• Quick, easy, and painless

Contact an eye doctor near you to find out the best way to clean your eyes to improve your dry eye.

SEE RELATED: Meibomian Gland Dysfunction

Makeup do’s and don’ts to protect yourself from bacteria and dry eye syndrome

Did you know that your eye makeup may be contributing to your dry eye symptoms?

Take a look at these 10 tips to help you keep your eyes healthy:

1. Do clean your makeup brushes regularly
2. Do apply makeup outside of your eyelids, instead of on your lid line
3. Do apply mascara just to the tips of your eyelashes
4. Do use lubricating eye drops 30 minutes before applying makeup
5. Do remove eye makeup before you go to sleep
6. Don’t use eye makeup remover that contain oil or parabens
7. Don’t share eye makeup, ever
8. Don’t use dried-out mascara
9. Don’t use eye makeup that has expired
10. Don’t use eye makeup when you have an eye infection

When to see your eye doctor

Inadequate eyelid hygiene can also lead to a condition called Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD). If you are experiencing dry eyes, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor to determine if blepharitis is causing your symptoms. Speak with your doctor about an eyelid cleaning routine, and the products they recommend using.

Eyelid cleaning will not only improve your dry eye symptoms, but can prevent dry eye from reoccurring. 

LEARN MORE:  Guide to Eye Conditions

Schedule an appointment with an eye doctor to learn more about how to clean your eyes to improve your dry eye.

The post Does Eyelid Cleaning Improve Dry Eye? appeared first on Optometrists.org.

The demodex mite can cause blepharitis, resulting in inflammation of the eyelids and severe dry eye.

Demodex folliculorum is a type of demodex mite that lives mostly within the hair follicles on the face and the eyes and is usually found on the eyelids and lashes.

Demodex mites come out during the night to eat dead skin cells, lay eggs and expel waste products in your eyelid glands and eyelash follicles.

Demodex mites naturally occur on the skin in small amounts and can actually be beneficial for the skin, as they remove the dead skin cells. In small numbers, they typically do not cause any harm or symptoms.

However, if they reproduce in large numbers, they can cause significant damage to the skin and eyes— dry, red, and itchy skin, and/or eczema, as well as severe inflammation of the eyelids, and damage to the oil glands in the eyelid margins, meibomian glands and eyelashes.

How does a demodex mite infestation cause blepharitis?

Blepharitis affects up to 45 percent of people and occurs when the eyelids become inflamed. Blepharitis typically occurs as a result of a blockage in the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes, sometimes as a result of a demodex mite infestation.

Demodex mites become more prevalent with age, and are typically the cause of blepharitis in patients over the age of 60.  

Additionally, patients with chronic rosacea tend to have more demodex mites than people without rosacea, putting them at a higher risk of developing demodex blepharitis.

What are the symptoms of demodex blepharitis?

Common eye symptoms include:

• Dry eyes
• Redness
• Tearing
• White flakes in your eyelashes
• Burning or stinging
• Eye or eyelid irritation
• Itchy eyes or eyelids
• Foreign body sensation
• Intermittent blurred vision
• Light sensitivity
• Brittle/loss of eyelashes
• Misdirected eyelashes
• Eye or eyelid infections

Demodex mites can cause blepharitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, dry eyes, styes, chalazion, and ocular rosacea.

If you experience any of these symptoms contact an eye doctor near you so that you can start treating your demodex blepharitis.

SEE RELATED: Do I have Blepharitis?

Diagnosis and treatment

A diagnosis of demodex blepharitis can be confirmed by your eye doctor. Your doctor may use a slit lamp with high magnification to view the mites on your eyelashes or use a microscope to examine an eyelash sample.

The most effective way to eliminate a demodex infestation is to adhere to a daily eye cleansing routine. Cleaning your eyelids with warm water, and applying a warm, wet compress will help to reduce the swelling and keep your eyelids and lashes clean.

Your eye doctor may recommend using a combination of warm compresses and eyelid scrubs. By gently scrubbing your eyelids, you can effectively remove the buildup of excess bacteria from your eyelid margins.

For mild blepharitis, cleaning your lashes with tea tree oil or another antiseptic product may be effective in eliminating the demodex infestation.

However, for moderate to severe cases of blepharitis, your eye doctor may prescribe an antibiotic or anti-parasitic treatment along with a daily cleansing routine. A corticosteroid eye drop or ointment can also help to reduce eyelid inflammation.

In-office eyelid hygiene procedures may be recommended for more intensive blepharitis treatment.

• Eyelid margin cleaning efficiently removes demodex mites from your eyelids and opens clogged meibomian glands.
• Thermal pulsation treatments melt the particles that are blocking the meibomian glands.
• Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy opens clogged eyelid glands to allow for increased oil production into the tear film.

When to see your eye doctor

If you are experiencing symptoms of a demodex infestation, blepharitis, or any eyelid discomfort, schedule an appointment with an eye doctor for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

LEARN MORE:  Guide to Eye Conditions

While blepharitis can become a chronic condition, with good eye hygiene and medical interventions, you can relieve uncomfortable symptoms and keep ocular demodex under control.

The post How Does the Demodex Mite Cause Blepharitis? appeared first on Optometrists.org.

Your eyelids play a crucial role in protecting your ocular health.

Eyelids cover the delicate cornea. Without the eyelids, the cornea would be exposed to many harmful infections, injuries, and diseases— causing damaging effects on ocular health and vision.

Eyelids distribute and eliminate tears. When the eyelids close, they distribute tears over the eye’s surface— enabling proper lubrication of the eye. The eyelids also eliminate tears by pushing them through the lacrimal puncta into the tear duct.

Anatomically speaking, the eyelids consist of:

• An anterior layer of skin and orbicularis oculi muscle
• A posterior layer of tarsus and conjunctiva
• Several glands along the eyelid margins

Eyelid conditions

Eyelid conditions or disorders include any type of inflammation, infection, benign and malignant tumors, and structural problems. Most eyelid conditions are not sight-threatening or life-threatening. However, they do cause many uncomfortable symptoms such as pain, burning, and foreign-body sensation.

Proper treatment of eyelid conditions relies heavily on an accurate diagnosis. Treatments vary depending on the condition— some conditions may respond to warm compresses and antibiotics, while others will require excision, cryotherapy or laser treatment.

How are eyelid conditions diagnosed?

A comprehensive eye exam will provide the essential information required for an accurate diagnosis of an eyelid condition.

The following factors should be investigated during the exam:

• The duration of the problem
• A change in size or appearance of a lesion
• Recurrence of a tumor that has been treated
• History of skin cancer

Your eye doctor will examine the structure of your eyelid, and look for signs of:

• Drooping
• Excess tissue
• Retraction problems
• Lesions
• Inward/outward turning
• Excessive tearing
• Misdirected eyelashes

Eyelid conditions are categorized into two different types:

• Inflammatory eyelid disorders
• Mechanical eyelid disorders

Inflammatory eyelid disorders

Blepharitis

One of the most common eyelid problems is blepharitis, or inflammation of the eyelid margin. This condition is caused by oil and bacteria that coat the edge of the eyelid, near the base of the eyelashes.

Symptoms include:

• Redness
• Itching
• Burning
• Tearing
• Crusting around eyes
• Foriegn body sensation

Blepharitis can often lead to a stye or a chalazion.

Blepharitis treatment often includes: applying warm compresses, cleaning your eyelids with a moist washcloth and baby shampoo, and applying antibiotic ointment.

Blepharitis is a chronic condition— eyelid hygiene may need to be continued indefinitely.

Meibomianitis

Meibomianitis, or posterior blepharitis, occurs when the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes become clogged— causing the eyelid to thicken and become crusty. Meibomianitis treatment is similar to blepharitis treatment.

Lacrimal duct obstruction

The lacrimal duct is responsible for draining tears from your eyes into your nose. When it becomes blocked, inflammation or infection can occur.

Common symptoms include:

• Irritation
• Burning
• Itching
• Tearing

Many obstructions clear on their own, but warm compresses or a gentle massage to help clear the blockage, can speed up the healing process. Topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to treat an infection. If all other treatments are ineffective, surgery may be recommended as a last resort.

Chalazion

A chalazion is a lump that forms under the skin of the eyelid. It can develop when the meibomian gland becomes obstructed or inflamed, causing a release of the gland’s contents into the surrounding soft tissue. This in turn, leads to a lipogranulomatosis reaction, causing a lump to form. When the chalazion begins to develop, it may be tender to touch, though it typically evolves into a non-tender lump.

In some cases, a secondary infection occurs within the chalazion.

Treatment includes warm compresses, and topical antibiotics if signs of infection are present. If the lesion persists, it may be surgically removed.

Stye/hordeolum

A stye, or hordeolum, is a red, sensitive bump that appears on the edge of the eyelid as a result of a bacterial infection of an oil gland, sweat gland, or hair follicle. An internal stye is caused by an infection of the meibomian gland and may evolve into a chalazion. An external stye is caused by an infection of the glands located anterior to the lash line.

Styes usually recede without treatment over time. However, applying warm, moist compresses several times per day, can help it heal faster. If you have a stye that doesn’t recede within one to two weeks, you may need to take antibiotics. Incision and drainage are required for non-resolving lesions.

Find an eye doctor near you who can help diagnose and treat any eyelid conditions you may have.

SEE RELATED: Myokymia (Eye Twitch)

Mechanical eyelid conditions

Blepharospasm

A blepharospasm is an involuntary spasm of the muscle in the eyelid that causes repetitive twitching, blinking, or fluttering. It can affect people of all ages, especially those who are sleep deprived or stressed.

There are different types of blepharospasm:

1. Benign essential blepharospasm (BEB)

Benign essential blepharospasm is a form of dystonia that causes involuntary muscle contractions as a result of abnormal functioning of the basal ganglia function. It develops gradually, and occurs on both sides of the face. This type of blepharospasm can affect men and women, but it occurs most frequently among older women.

Symptoms are usually experienced during the day, and cause light sensitivity and difficulty keeping your eyes open.

As BEB progresses, the spasms occur more frequently with greater intensity, often forcing the eyes to close and causing functional blindness— even though the eyes are healthy.

While surgery may work to stop muscle spasms, it may also cause permanent damage to the eyelid.

Therefore, this condition is usually treated with medications, including injections of botulinum toxin— that help to relax or paralyze the muscles that have the spasms.

2. Hemifacial blepharospasm

Hemifacial blepharospasms affect only one side of the face. This type of blepharospasm is usually caused by irritation of the facial nerves. In some cases, a tumor can cause a hemifacial blepharospasm.

An MRI is typically recommended if you are experiencing one-sided facial spasms.

Blepharoptosis

Blepharoptosis, also known as ptosis, occurs when the upper eyelid droops. If the eyelid droops far enough, it can block your pupil, resulting in partial blindness.

Ptosis has a variety of possible causes, including:

• Congenital ptosis results from a developmental problem with the levator muscle, responsible for lifting the upper eyelid. One eye is usually affected, and surgical correction will be required if the eyelid droops low enough to obstruct vision— otherwise, your child may develop a lazy eye or permanent vision loss.

• Aponeurotic ptosis is usually the result of aging. Over time, the effects of gravity or repetitive opening and closing of the eyelids, stretch the connective tissues in the eye that attach to the levator muscle. In most cases, both eyelids are affected, though often, one will droop lower than the other. This condition is corrected with surgery.

• Myasthenia gravis can cause ptosis, in its early stages. Myasthenia gravis is a rare disease that causes progressive muscle weakness in the face and other body parts. Seek immediate attention if you suspect that you have this condition. Early diagnosis is crucial for optimal treatment results.

Other causes of ptosis may include:

• Eyelid infection
• Eyelid trauma
• Congenital muscle diseases
• Stroke
• Brain tumor
• Brain aneurysm
• Nerve damage from diabetes

Coloboma

A coloboma is a gap within the eye tissue that appears at birth. It can affect one or both eyes, and occurs as a result of abnormal eye development during gestation. Colobomas that are noticed at birth can signal an undiagnosed syndrome. Colobomas are often corrected with surgery.

Dermatochalasis

Dermatochalasis develops when excess eyelid skin or fat hangs over the edge of the eye and blocks vision. This condition is treated with surgery.

Ectropion

Ectropion occurs when one of the eyelids, often the lower eyelid, turns outward and exposes the inner eyelid. This condition can cause dryness, irritation, and redness.

Ectropion is treated with eye drops to keep the eye moistened, and steroid ointment to reduce inflammation. However, surgery is often necessary for correction of the condition.

Entropion

Entropion occurs when one of the eyelids, often the lower eyelid, turns inward. When this happens, the eyelashes rub against the cornea and surrounding soft tissues, causing irritation, redness and a mucus discharge. Entropion frequently occurs in older adults.

Treatment usually involves eye drops and steroid cream, and corrective surgery.

Facial palsy

Facial palsies, such as Bell’s palsy, can affect the eyelid— resulting in an inability to close the upper eyelid, or reduced muscle tension in the lower eyelid. If you have facial palsy, protect your eyes by using eye drops and taping your eyes shut to help prevent corneal abrasions or ulcerations.

Trichiasis

Trichiasis occurs when your eyelashes grow in different directions and rub against the cornea.

Trichiasis can cause:

• Pain
• Redness
• Irritation
• Tear production

This condition can be corrected by removing the eyelashes. If the lashes continue to grow incorrectly, they can be permanently removed by extracting the hair follicles.

How can you protect your eyelids?

You can prevent the development of eyelid conditions by following these tips:

• Wash your hands often with warm, soapy water for at least 15 seconds.
• Clean your eyelids regularly with warm water and baby shampoo to help prevent inflammation and infections.
• Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.
• Use anti dandruff or medicated shampoos to control bacteria that may cause blepharitis.
• Avoid allergens that cause eye redness or swelling after exposure to them.
• Use hypoallergenic eye makeup if regular makeup causes irritation.

Some eyelid conditions do not cause any long term problems and will go away with time, or once an infection clears.

Many eyelid conditions can lead to chronic disorders, such as dry eye syndrome, astigmatism, or even vision loss. 

LEARN MORE:  Guide to Eye Conditions

Schedule an exam with an eye doctor if you are experiencing a problem with your eyelids. There are many different types of eyelid conditions, and a variety of effective treatment options to relieve uncomfortable symptoms and treat the conditions.

Don’t hesitate— an early diagnosis will increase your chances for optimal treatment results.

The post Eyelid Conditions appeared first on Optometrists.org.

Blepharitis is one of the most common ocular conditions caused by an inflammation of the eyelids, usually as a result of a blockage in the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes. In some cases, blepharitis is caused by a bacterial infection or skin condition such as dandruff of the scalp or rosacea.

Blepharitis can also be caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD).

Blepharitis affects up to 45 percent of people— most often, females above age 50.

However, blepharitis can affect people of all ages. The condition is usually not contagious, and generally does not cause any permanent damage to eyesight.

Two types of blepharitis

1. Anterior blepharitis occurs on the outer, or front edge of the eyelid— where the eyelashes attach. This type of blepharitis is commonly caused by bacteria (staphylococcal blepharitis) or dandruff of the scalp and eyebrows (seborrheic blepharitis). Although uncommon, anterior blepharitis may also result from allergies or a mite infestation of the eyelashes.

2. Posterior blepharitis occurs in the inner edge of the eyelid— near the eyeball.  This type of blepharitis can occur when the glands of the eyelids irregularly produce oil (meibomian blepharitis)— creating a warm invitation for bacterial growth. Posterior blepharitis can also develop as a result of other skin conditions, such as scalp dandruff or rosacea.

Symptoms of blepharitis

Many symptoms include:

• Redness
• Itchy eyes
• Dry eyes
• Burning
• Swelling
• Oily eyelids
• Light sensitivity
• Increased tears
• Foreign body sensation
• Discharge
• Crusting on eyelashes or eye corner

In some cases, blepharitis may only cause minor irritation and itching.

However, this condition can also cause more severe symptoms, such as blurred vision, missing or misdirected eyelashes, and corneal inflammation.

It is important to avoid touching or rubbing the irritated area to prevent a secondary infection.

If you experience any of these symptoms contact an eye doctor near you.

SEE RELATED: What is a Stye?

Risk factors

• Scalp or eyebrow dandruff
• Allergies to eye or face makeup
• Oil gland problems
• Lice or mites on eyelashes
• Medications that affect immune system

How is blepharitis diagnosed?

Blepharitis is diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination. Inform your eye doctor of your symptoms, any other health problems you may have, and all medications you are currently taking.

Your eye doctor will then examine your eye using the following assessments to identify any abnormalities:

• External examination of the eye including skin texture, lid structure, and eyelash appearance.
• Evaluation of lid margins, base of the eyelashes, and meibomian gland openings using magnification and bright light.
• Evaluation of quantity and quality of tears.

The appearance of the eyelid margins will help to determine the type of blepharitis you may be experiencing. 

Staphylococcal blepharitis

• Mildly sticking eyelids
• Thickened lid margins
• Missing and misdirected eyelashes

Seborrheic blepharitis

• Greasy flakes around the base of eyelashes
• Mild redness of the eyelids

Ulcerative blepharitis

• Hard crusts around the eyelashes
• Small sores that ooze and bleed
• Eyelash loss
• Distortion of the front edges of the eyelids
• Chronic tearing
• Corneal inflammation

Meibomian blepharitis

• Redness of the lining of the eyelids
• Blockage of oil glands in the eyelids
• Poor tear quality

How is blepharitis treated?

A range of effective in-office treatments can be provided to eliminate the infection, and relieve uncomfortable symptoms. Your eye doctor will determine an appropriate treatment plan, based on the type of infection detected.

In-office eyelid hygiene procedures often are recommended for more effective blepharitis treatment.

Common procedures include:

• Eyelid margin cleaning efficiently removes bacteria, biofilm and demodex mites from your eyelids, and opens clogged meibomian glands.
• Thermal pulsation treatment melts and removes the particles that are blocking the meibomian glands.
• Intense pulsed light (IPL) therapy opens clogged eyelid glands to allow for a  normal flow of oils into the tear film.

Medicated eye drops/ointments are prescribed if there is a risk of eye infection. These topical medicines have antibacterial properties that serve to eliminate the microbes on the eyelids.

Your eye doctor may also prescribe oral medication to help clear an infection, or a corticosteroid eye drop or ointment to reduce inflammation.

Schedule an appointment with an eye doctor near you to start treating your blepharitis.

Prevention

Your eye doctor may recommend using lubricating eye drops to keep your eyes moist and prevent irritation from dryness. Cleaning your eyelids with warm water, and applying a warm, wet compress will also help to reduce swelling and ensure that your eyelids remain clean and free of any crust.

Good hygiene is always important, and in this case can help control blepharitis.

• Wash scalp and face frequently
• Use warm compresses to soak the eyelids
• Gently scrub eyelids to keep them clean

LEARN MORE:  Guide to Eye Conditions

If you are experiencing symptoms of blepharitis, or meibomian gland dysfunction, schedule an exam with an eye doctor as soon as possible to obtain a proper diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

The sooner an eye condition is diagnosed, the sooner you will begin to feel better!

The post Blepharitis appeared first on Optometrists.org.