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Blepharitis

Blepharitis means the margins of the eyelids are inflamed. It normally involves both lids and tends to persist rather than clear after one episode. For most people the result is daily irritation rather than serious loss of sight.

Medicine used to treat Blepharitis

Tobradex

Tobramycin, Dexamethasone

0.1/0.3%

Tobradex is an eye drop suspension containing tobramycin and dexamethasone, used for bacterial conjunctivitis and blepharitis. It comes in one strength and several pack sizes. You can compare the price per bottle across options.

FromUS$7.82/ bottleView

Key points

  • Glands along the lid edge become blocked or colonised by bacteria, giving crusting and greasy scales with a gritty, burning feeling.
  • The form affecting the lash roots is often bacterial, while the deeper oil-gland form behaves differently, and many people have both.
  • Cleaning the lid margins every day, starting with a warm compress to soften debris, is the main way to keep the condition controlled.

What lies behind it

Each eyelid edge contains the roots of the lashes and a line of oil glands. When those glands block or bacteria settle there, the rim becomes inflamed. Anterior blepharitis sits at the base of the lashes; posterior blepharitis comes from poor function of the deeper oil glands. The two patterns often occur together in the same person.

How it shows itself

Typical signs are reddened rims, crusting and greasy scales along the margin, and eyelids stuck together on waking. A gritty or burning sensation is common through the day. During more inflamed spells the lids may swell, and small sores can appear along the lash line. Eye care measures at home centre on keeping the margins clear.

Treatment

Lid hygiene does most of the work. Hold a warm compress over closed eyes for a few minutes to soften the blocked secretions, then clean the margins gently with purpose-made lid wipes or a dilute baby shampoo solution. Once or twice daily, morning or evening, brings build-up down over several weeks.

Where inflammation is marked or a secondary infection has developed, topical treatment may be added: tobramycin, an antibiotic, or dexamethasone, a corticosteroid. Tobradex combines both in a bottle at 0.1/0.3% and is also used for conjunctivitis. Orders are prepared by pharmacy partners in India and shipped to Malaysia in discreet packaging.

When to seek an examination

Symptoms that persist or worsen, marked redness, or any change in vision should prompt a prompt eye examination.

Further reading

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