Getting to Know Anterior and Posterior Blepharitis

Blepharitis is one of the common and recurrent conditions wherein the eyelids become swollen or inflamed due to presence of bacteria and oily particles along the margins of the eyelid just neart the bottom of the eyelashes. Blepharitis is quite annoying since it constantly causes itchiness, irritation, and burning or stinging sensations in the eye. Though the main causes of blepharitis are not yet well-understood, we can reliably say that this condition is closely associated with bacterial eye infections, presence of a skin condition such as acne rosacea, or symptoms indicating dry eyes. An Anterior blepharitis usually affects the outer eyelid where the eyelashes are attached. Bacterial infection is the common cause though viral infection can be possible. If anterior blepharitis is left untreated, the eyelids may become thickened and will either turn outward or inward with a couple of vision problems and damaged cornea. A posterior blepharitis on the other hand, is a condition caused by a dysfunction of the eye's meibomian glands which are described as tiny oil glands located in the eyelids near the base of the eyelashes.

When the meibonian glands become obstructed due to posterior blepharitis, it can also result to formation of chalazion or stye. With this type of blepharitis, the margins of the eyelids will also become thickened and crusty and the tears may even appear foamy. Majority of people which are having blepharitis can have both anterior and posterior infection at varying degrees. The rosacea blepharitis is usually associated with an ocular rosacea which is a condition that causes swelling and redness of the eyelid due to several oil glands malfunction. A common skin condition which is acne rosacea, may appear as facial redness with pimple-like bumps. The common symptoms of blepharitis can include crusting of the eyelashes and eyelids, irritation of the eye and eyelid, tearing, eyelid margin redness, sensation of presence of foreign body in the eye, itchiness, and burning sensation. People who have oily skin, dry eyes, or dandruff tendencies are prone to blepharitis formation. Also, people who are having problems with their meibomian gland, which is a nearby oil gland of the eyelid, are also at high risk for developing blepharitis. By visiting the eye doctor Austin, a close examination of the eyelashes and eyelids can be done to completely diagnose blepharitis. The eye doctor Austin may also conduct a slit lamp microscope examination, test vision, and also test the eye's pressure.