Why does Blepharitis occur?
The primary cause of blepharitis is chronic inflammation induced by blockage of the glands that produce oil for the eyelashes, the meibomian glands. It is likely due to an eye infection or improper ocular hygiene. Unknown are the specific causes of blepharitis. There are numerous risk factors for the development of this condition. The most prevalent causes of blepharitis are the infection, poor hygiene, scratches caused by contact lens wear, and eyelid infections caused by dirt, lint, or dander. (3)
Infectious bacteria
Blepharitis is one of the results of bacterial infection. Bacteria that develop and multiply in the tiny oil glands of the eyelashes may be the cause of bacterial infections and styes. An organism known as Staphylococcus aureus (staph) may be responsible for this ocular infection. Other than aureus, Pseudomonas and Corynebacterium species are the most prevalent pathogens.
It is possible for the glands to become clogged and contaminated, resulting in an infected hair follicle. This can cause one eye to become inflamed, swollen, and painful. These conditions are readily treatable, but susceptible patients may experience recurrence.
obstructed oil glands in the eyelids
Blepharitis is most frequently caused by an obstructed oil gland on the eyelid. The natural tear film of the eye, a protective layer composed of oil, water, and antibodies, travels over the eye to keep it moist and healthy. Inflammation and infection can occur, however, if tears are not flowing adequately on the lower eyelid.
Blocked oil glands on the eyelid, also known as meibomian gland dysfunction, can lead to dryness and inflammation, resulting in blurred vision, stinging, burning, and irritated eyes. When the lining of the eyelid does not produce enough oil to maintain eyelashes soft and healthy, blocked oil glands can occur.
Common causes of obstruction include:
Allergic reactions
Adolescence is associated with hormonal changes.
Conditions of the skin, such as rosacea or acne
Eyelash mites or eyelash parasites
Medications, such as isotretinoin for acne, that increase bacteria on the conjunctiva, including antibiotics
a number of contact lens solutions
Eye cosmetics
Hormonal issues
While the precise cause of blepharitis is unknown, experts believe an imbalance in hormones may be to blame. Among them are thyroid disease, diabetes, pregnancy, and menopause. The glands of the face (tissue on, under, and around the eyes) are affected by hormones. When hormone levels are not optimal, glands become enlarged or distended.
The hormone-regulating chemical messengers can induce blepharitis. High levels of estrogen, a female hormone produced during the menstrual cycle and during pregnancy, may stimulate oil glands to produce more oil. Sebaceous glands may enlarge and become inflamed as a result.
Men and women between the ages of 30 and 60 are typically affected by hormonal imbalance. When you are older than 60, it is normal for your eyelids to become dry due to aging, but if this condition persists and recurs, it indicates that your hormonal balance has been disturbed. You could heal blepharitis by supplementing the absent hormone or adjusting your hormone levels.
Allergic reactions
Common causes of blepharitis include allergies to pollen, pet dander, dust mites, and other irritants, which can make the condition difficult to treat. Your allergen may originate from your family, pets, or workplace.
Symptoms of an allergy include irritation and swelling of the eyelids, watery or burning eyes, sensitivity to light, a watery discharge from the eye, and crusting and scaling around the eyelid margin. If you are experiencing these symptoms and suspect an allergen may be the cause, you should visit your optometrist for a thorough eye exam.
Viral disease
Several viruses are known to cause blepharitis, with the herpes simplex virus – which causes herpetic blepharitis – being the most common. This infection is characterized by the development of whitish or yellow crusts and follicles on the lid margins, lids, and lashes. The inflammation caused by the viral infection causes ocular swelling, discharge, and bumps. This creates an optimal environment for bacterial growth and increases the likelihood of a bacterial super infection. In the majority of cases of viral infection, the infection will resolve on its own within a few weeks.
The mites
They are microscopic organisms that inhabit eyelash follicles. These mites feed on your eyelashes’ oils and epidermis cells, causing them to become inflamed, red, and swollen. They can extend to the eyebrows, resulting in a condition known as Blepharitis. The inflammation causes gland discharges, crusting, and other symptoms that may result in additional complications.
Communal dandruff
Dandruff is a common but unsightly condition that causes white or yellow flakes to appear on the eyebrows. This can occur at any age, but adolescents and young adults are more susceptible. Seborrhea (the secretion of sebaceous glands) and erythema are the most prominent symptoms of dandruff. However, dandruff is not a disease, but rather a common problem caused by an imbalance between normal hair growth and sebum production.
Blepharitis caused by dandruff is characterized by a visible “white film” on the scalp and itching of the scalp. This condition is treatable with cleansers that contain coal tar, selenium sulfide, or zinc pyrithione.
Having eczema
Eczema is a skin condition that causes irritation, inflammation, and the development of red, scaly regions on the epidermis. It affects individuals of all ages, but infants, children, and pregnant women may be more susceptible.
It can also affect the interior of the eyelids (blepharitis), causing itching, burning, and redness. It is a chronic condition of the eyelids that causes the body to produce excessive skin cells. These skin cells do not shed properly, resulting in the formation of dead skin cells that clog the skin’s surface and produce white or yellow scales. Additionally, it can cause red, itchy regions on the eyelids that are susceptible to infection if not kept clean and dry.
Acne Rosacea
Rosacea is a common condition that produces redness and bumps on the face. Acne is caused by an accumulation of oil on the skin, which occurs when there are too many microorganisms on the face. Rosacea also causes the blood vessels just beneath the skin to swell and become visible, resulting in a face that is red, swollen, and sensitive to temperature changes. The primary symptoms are flushing, scorching, or stinging of the face. Eye symptoms include redness of the eyelids (blepharitis), persistent burning, and stinging and enlargement of the eyelids – along with irritation and sensitivity to light.
This condition has multiple causes, including lifestyle choices, heredity, and the skin’s environment. Despite its name, rosacea can affect anyone, but those with fair complexion and light eyes are most susceptible. There is no cure for rosacea, but treatments can help manage symptoms.
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