Red eyelid margins and persistent ocular irritation can be signs of blepharitis. However, your ophthalmologist can help definitively diagnose this condition by careful examination of the eyelid margins. The inflammation around the eyelids can be improved by increased lid hygiene. Gently scrubbing the eyelid margins with baby shampoo diluted with water can decrease the amount of flaking skin and oil in the area. A cotton tipped applicator or a washcloth wrapped around the index finger can be used to apply the shampoo.
Warm compresses applied to the lids for several minutes a day can also be helpful.
In some select cases, your ophthalmologist may also choose to prescribe an antibiotic ointment or drop. Blepharitis is a chronic condition that often requires long-term treatment in order to prevent exacerbations. Please call your local eye care professional for more information about blepharitis. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part in any form or medium without express written permission of the Digital Journal of Ophthalmology is prohibited.