Blephartis

Are you suffering from red, sore or flakey eyelids? You could have a common condition called blepharitis!

Have you been waking up to sore, red and flakey eyelids? Maybe you feel like something is constantly in your eye? Or perhaps you have experienced a burning sensation throughout the day? If you have answered yes to any of the above questions, it’s crucial for you to visit an eye specialist as soon as you can: it’s likely that you are suffering from a common condition called blepharitis.

As well as the above symptoms, blepharitis can cause a layer of flakes or ‘crust’ to develop around your eyelashes. The hardened flakes then cause localised swelling and irritation. While you are sleeping, the flakes can make your eyelids stick together, making it difficult for you to open them in the morning.

Although blepharitis is easily treated, many patients allow the condition to worsen, causing scarring and in worst cases damage to the surrounding tissue of the eye.

If you are currently experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms, please speak to a member of our experienced team today so we can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

Treating blepharitis is easy; prior to your appointment with one of our eye specialists, you can start to control the condition at home. Please read the steps listed below to help treat and cleanse your eye:

• 1. Wet a clean flannel in warm water. Wring the flannel and place it over the closed eyelids for five minutes. Wet the flannel again if necessary to maintain the desired temperature. This will help to soften crusts and loosen oily debris.
• 2. Cleanse one eye at a time with an eyelid scrub, which can be bought as over the counter medication. Close the eye you are cleansing and gently rub the lid scrub over the eyelashes and lid several times using horizontal strokes.
• 3. Pat dry with a clean soft towel.

However, please remember this simple advice should not be a substitute for coming to visit us. If you would like one of our experienced Optometrists to care for your eyes then please make an appointment with us today by calling 020 8755 7900. Alternatively you can send us an email to opticians@eyesmile.com.