Information about the conditions we treat at Laurel Eye Physicians. Blepharitis is an extremely common, chronic condition that affects people of all ages, including young children. Anterior blepharitis involves crusting and flakiness of the lashes, and posterior blepharitis involves the oil glands on the eyelid margin - the flat stripe of tissue just behind the lashes. It is not uncommon to have both anterior and posterior blepharitis. In any of the types, the eyelids become inflamed which can, in turn, cause irritation of the eyes and many symptoms similar to dry eye syndrome.

Common symptoms of blepharitis include:

• Crust or "grit" in the eyes, particularly in the morning upon awakening, and often in the inner corners of the eyes


• Red eyelids near the base of the lashes, which can also cause eyelid swelling


• Intermittent blurred vision, particularly in the morning and/or with prolonged reading or computer use


• Stye, or chalazion - a clogged oil duct in the eyelid, which can be large or small, painful or not, anywhere along the upper or lower eyelid near the lashes, and there can be more than one at the same time


• Red eyes


• Foreign body sensation - the feeling that something is in the eye, such as sand or a loose eyelash


• Posterior blepharitis can cause an evaporative type of dry eye in which the tear film evaporates too quickly, necessitating frequent blinking in an attempt to see more clearly


• Can be asymptomatic for months or years at a time until it flares up

Blepharitis is a chronic condition for which there is no cure. However, there are various treatments and combinations of treatments that Dr. Oser or Dr. Wertlieb can customize for you in order to find the appropriate treatment regimen that controls your symptoms and minimizes flare-ups.

If you think you may be suffering from blepharitis or a chalazion, please call us for an appointment.