Blepharitis (blef-uh-RYE-tis) is inflammation of the eyelids.Blepharitis usually affects both eyes along the edges of the eyelids. Blepharitis commonly occurs when tiny oil glands near the base of the eyelashes become clogged, causing irritation and redness. Several diseases and conditions can cause blepharitis.

SYMPTOMS OF BLEPHARITIS

Blepharitis signs and symptoms are typically worse in the morning. They include:

• Watery eyes
• Red eyes
• A gritty, burning or stinging sensation in the eyes
• Eyelids that appear greasy
• Itchy eyelids
• Red, swollen eyelids
• Flaking of the skin around the eyes
• Crusted eyelashes
• Eyelid sticking
• More frequent blinking
• Sensitivity to light
• Blurred vision that usually improves with blinking

CAUSES OF BLEPHARITIS

The exact cause of blepharitis isn't clear. In some cases, it can spread to another person. It might be associated with one or more of the following:

• Seborrheic dermatitis — dandruff of the scalp and eyebrows
• Infection
• Clogged or malfunctioning oil glands in your eyelids
• Rosacea — a skin condition characterized by facial redness
• Allergies, including allergic reactions to eye medications, contact lens solutions or eye makeup
• Eyelash mites or lice
• Dry eyes

COMPLICATIONS OF BLEPHARITIS

• Eyelash problems-Blepharitis can cause eyelashes to fall out, grow abnormally (misdirected eyelashes) or lose color.
• Eyelid skin problems-Scarring can develop on eyelids from long-term blepharitis. Or the eyelid edges might turn inward or outward.

• Excess tearing or dry eyes-Abnormal oily secretions and other debris shed from the eyelids, such as flaking associated with dandruff, can build up in tear film ie. the water, oil and mucus solution that forms tears.

  Abnormal tear film interferes with keeping eyelids moist. This can irritate eyes and cause symptoms of dry eyes or excess tearing.

• Sty-A sty is an infection that develops near the base of the eyelashes.The result is a painful lump on the edge of eyelid. A sty is usually most visible on the surface of the eyelid.
• Chalazion- A chalazion occurs when there is blockage in one of the small oil glands at the margin of the eyelid, just behind the eyelashes. This blockage causes inflammation of the gland, which makes the eyelid swell and redden. This can clear up or turn into a hard, nontender bump.
• Chronic pink eye-Blepharitis can lead to recurrent bouts of pink eye (conjunctivitis).
• Injury to the cornea-Constant irritation from inflamed eyelids or misdirected eyelashes can cause a sore to develop on your cornea. Not having enough tears could increase your risk of a corneal infection.

HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINE FOR BLEPHARITIS

ANTIM CRUDE : Usefull for blepharitis eyes that are dull, sunken, red and itch.Given when eyelids are inflamed and agglutinated.There is raw, fissured, red and cracked canthi.Very useful for Chronic blepharitis with dried mucous in canthi of eyes.There is pustules on the margins of lids and on the cornea.

ARGENTUM NITRICUM : Usefull for blepharitis occurs with closed eyes.There is itching of the eyelids and canthi with abundant purulent discharge.Given when eyelids are thick and red. Secondarily it causes conjunctivitis, ulcerative keratitis and iritis.

CLEMATIS ERECTA : Useful in chronic blepharitis with sore and swollen meibomian glands. Eyes are very sensitive to cold. Eyes are inflamed and protruding; associated conjunctivitis.

GRAPHITES : Useful for swollen and red eyelid.Given when eyelids feels heavy and falling.Useful for lids problem when it is dry, often fissured and have eczematous eruptions. There is soreness and cracking outer canthi.There is marked photophobia.Most suitable to patients who are fat, stout and chilly having tendency to take chill.