Blepharitis (eyelid ulcers) is a common and widespread problem, and it can be happened for different reasons. Including the Conjunctival infections, And some causes can be easily treated, But also the eyelid pain can be a sign for more dangerous cases like Graves disease.
The Symptoms
- Pain in the upper , and the lower eyelids in the same time or in one of them.
- The appearance of the sores in the eyelid or in the eye itself or in the surrounding areas.
- Swelling and feeling of pain when blinking, and corneal abrasion.
- Eye redness.
The Causes
The infection and obstruction
- The inflammation happens when a part of the body becomes red coloured, or irritated, or swollen, or painful. It also happens when the body resists infection from bacteria , or viruses ,or response to a shock.
- For example Blepharitis happens because the bacteria found in every person`s body , it is more common with people with oily skin. When one of the Sebaceous glands of the eyelid is clogged, the area becomes red, swollen , and burning, Which leads to a bump in the eyelid that can occurs in an internal or external area.
Conjunctivitis (pinkeye)
Another case that causes Blepharitis and can be caused by bacteria or viruses. When it is a viral infection . it is highly contagious. The eyes become very sensitive , and having yellow and green secretions.
Allergy
Eyelid rash is common. Especially in women ,and can be caused by an allergic reaction or an autoimmune disease, there are different types of allergies, such as contact dermatitis, occur when the skin reacts to a substance such as makeup and also occur with asthma, hay fever (allergic rhinitis) and chronic dermatitis, common allergens include tree pollen, mold spores, dust mites, and pet dander.
Eyelid injury
The eyelids are sensitive areas. And they are prone to injuries. Eyelid may also affect the globe (eyeball) or the tear ducts. And the best way to ascertain the seriousness of injuries is to make an appointment with an ophthalmologist.
Eye dryness
Dry eyes are another common cause of eyelid pain. This condition often causes a lack of fluid flow in the eye and eyelid pain. The causes can be lack of sleep, environmental conditions (wind, dust, air conditioning, etc.) or aging.
Types of treatment
Home remedies
Most of the eye s problems require a visit to the ophthalmologist, but some of them can be treated at home:
- Ice is an effective remedy for the affected eyes. The only thing necessary is to put an ice pack on the eye for 20 minutes every hour. however, if there are other symptoms such as (blurry vision, inability to move the eye or blood), the person should see a doctor immediately.
Viral conjunctivitis: While bacterial conjunctivitis is treated with medications, viral conjunctivitis will not respond to antibiotics and will disappear on its own, it is possible to reduce discomfort by applying cold compresses to the eye.
- Patterns: They are often harmless and disappear after a few days, they can be treated by placing a towel soaked in warm water on the eye.
- Anti-conjunctival medications: Some eye disorders can be treated with over-the-counter medications ,For example, allergic conjunctivitis is often treated with mast cell stabilizers and antihistamines.
Prescription
Doctors mostly prescribe ointments to treat bacterial infections, the ointments have a jelly texture and are often used overnight. These medications can be effective in treating bacterial conjunctivitis and some types of keratitis.
Complications
- The surrounding area of eyelids is very sensitive, and problems that affect them can cause short-term and long-term complications, when blepharitis lasts for a long time or occurs often, it can scar hair follicles and lead to eyelash loss, and long-term complications include eyelid boils.
- Untreated infections are also responsible for 98% of orbital cellulitis, which can cause blindness and meningitis in severe cases. It is more common in young children, but it may also occur in adults.
When to see the doctor?
- Watch out for unusual symptoms such as eyelid ulcers, severe pain, fever, vision loss, halos, nausea and vomiting, all of which require immediate medical attention.
- If your child has eyelid boils and chalazion, this infection should not be taken lightly, if it had been left untreated, it can lead to orbital cellulitis, which mostly affects children.
A word from Ibsar Specialist Center
The eyelids are a very sensitive area and are prone to infections and rashes that cause pain and discomfort. Although it is often easy to treat, it is necessary to visit a doctor for diagnosis and treatment, this will help avoid complications resulting from using the wrong home remedy to treat eyelid pain or serious complications such as vision loss from underlying untreated conditions.