BLEPHARITIS AND LID HYGIENE

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids. Symptoms include flaking or crusting of the lashes, redness of the lid margins, and irritation or itching of the eyes. It is often chronic and can be worse on some days than others.

Although it is difficult to cure it can usually be controlled. Warm lid compresses and scrubbing of the lashes are very effective ways of controlling the condition without resorting to medication. 

The following directions should be followed carefully: 

HOT COMPRESSES 

1. Run hot tap water in the sink and soak a terry washcloth in the hot water. Take care not to burn the skin of the lids. The cloth should be hot but not hot enough to burn the skin of the lids. It is not necessary to boil or microwave the water or cloth. 
2. Apply the warm compress to the lids with the eyes closed until the cloth cools. 
3. As the cloth cools reheat it under the running water and apply once more. 
4. Soak for a total of at least five (5) minutes. 

LID SCRUBS 

1. After the hot soaks, gently scrub the lower lashes by pulling the lower lid away from the eye, using either the edge of the washcloth or a pre-moistened eye-scrub pad. These pads are available without a prescription. When scrubbing the lower lid, look up so that you do not scratch your eye with the pad. 
2. Close your lids and scrub the upper lashes with the eyes closed. 
3. You may rinse the lids with tap water when finished. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acid and flax seed oil Supplements 

1. Oral supplements are helpful.  Take as directed by your physician. 

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