What is blepharitis?
Blepharitis is an irritation of the eyelids. It is a common eye condition that is usually caused by bacteria or by skin conditions such as dandruff and acne rosacea. It is sometimes caused by allergies.
Blepharitis is a chronic (long-lasting) condition that comes and goes over time. Although blepharitis does not result in blindness, it can cause red, irritated eyes.
What are the symptoms of blepharitis?
The symptoms of blepharitis include reddened, swollen, itchy eyelids and scaly eyelashes. As the scales become coarser, the surface of the eyelid becomes irritated and forms crusts, which may cause the lids to stick together when you wake up in the morning. If this crust falls into your eye, you may feel like you have “something in your eye,” or your eye may feel gritty.