Best Eye Drops for Blepharitis: Top-Rated Solutions for Symptom Relief

Best Eye Drops for Blepharitis

OVERVIEW

What is blepharitis?

Blepharitis is an eye disease of the lid margins which leads to discomfort, itching, grittiness, discharge and photophobia. The disease is associated with redness of the lid margins, scales and dandruff like material at the base of the eyelashes and sometimes sticky eyes. the condition is very uncomfortable in the long run and gives a very rough and unhygienic look to the eyes.

Blepharitis can present in the lower and upper eyelids equally. The uncertainty of the mechanism of the disease makes the treatment difficult, however some of the best eye drops for blepharitis and other remedies and treatment options will be discussed in our article.

CAUSES OF BLEPHARITIS

What is the Main Cause of Blepharitis?

The causes of blepharitis mainly depend upon the type of blepharitis. However, the main causes include invasion of the eyelid margins by staphylococcal aureus due to poor hygiene or habitual rubbing of the eyelashes.

In case of posterior blepharitis, the normal oil production by the Meibomian gland is disrupted leading to clogging of the Meibomian gland.

TYPES OF BLEPHARITIS

What are the types of blepharitis?

The common classification of blepharitis is anterior and posterior.

1. Anterior blepharitis:
   • The anterior blepharitis involves the base of eyelashes and can be divided into staphylococcal and seborrheic. The common etiology of staphylococcal blepharitis is related to cell mediated response of cell wall of staphylococcal aureus to the invading antigens. The immune response leads to the formation of peripheral ulceration and anterior blepharitis.
2. Posterior blepharitis:
   • The posterior blepharitis is caused due to the dysfunction of the Meibomian glands. The melting point of meibum is raised leading to decreased expression of meibum from the glands. The growth of the staphylococcal aureus is increased. There is loss of tear film phospholipid which act as a surfactant resulting in increased evaporation of tears, increased osmolarity and unstable tear film.

SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS

What are the Common Symptoms of Blepharitis?

The symptoms of blepharitis are usually bilateral and symmetrical. The condition is worsened in the morning however those with dry eye disease may complaint of the worsening condition throughout the day Some of the common symptoms includes.

DIAGNOSING BLEPHARITIS / SIGNS OF BLEPHARITIS

How is blepharitis diagnosed?

The ophthalmologist will do a detailed ophthalmic examination and will look for the following signs.

Anterior blepharitis:

1. Staphylococcal blepharitis: The signs of staphylococcal blepharitis include
2. Hard scales and crusting at the base of the lid margins
3. Hyperemia of the conjunctiva
4. Scaring and notching of the lid margins
5. Tear film instability and dry eye disease.
6. Atopic conjunctivitis
7. Seborrheic blepharitis: The signs of seborrheic blepharitis include
8. Hyperemic and greasy lid margins

Posterior blepharitis:

The signs of posterior blepharitis include

• Excessive and abnormal production of the Meibomian gland secretion along with capping of the Meibomian gland orifices.
• Pouting or recession of the Meibomian gland.
• Pressure on the eyelid margins leads to the secretions which is similar to toothpaste like material.

TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR BLEPHARITIS

What is the main treatment of blepharitis?

There is limited evidence for specific treatment of blepharitis. The treatment of anterior and posterior blepharitis is similar, however before starting treatment the patient should be assured that complete treatment of blepharitis is unlikely however the disease level can be controlled effectively with the following treatment options.

1. Lid hygiene / life style modification: The lid hygiene should be maintained once or twice a day along with the following guidelines
2. A warm compress should be applied for several minutes to soften the adherent crusts and debris.
3. Lid cleansing is performed to remove the soften crusts and debris. This is done with a cotton bud or damp bath towel dipped in ward dilute solution of baby shampoo or sodium bicarbonate.
4. If extensive Meibomian disease is present, the patient should be guided to roll the finger over the eyelid margin to squeeze the impacted material out of the blocked orifices.

Read About latest Treatment for Dry Eye Syndrome

Best eye drops for blepharitis/ benefits of using eye drops

• Antibiotics: Different antibiotics are used for blepharitis which includes fusidic acid, chloramphenicol, azithromycin, bacitracin etc. the antibiotic can be used in drops and ointment form. The ointment is rubbed on the margins of the lids with a cotton bud or clean finger.
• Topical steroids: Steroids are anti-inflammatory drugs. The inflammation of the eyelids will be reduced with topical use of steroids.
• Tear substitutes: Blepharitis can lead to dry eye condition, while treating blepharitis tear substitutes may help in relieving dry eye disease.

 Precautions and Side Effects of eyedrops

• Never use any eyedrops without consultation of an ophthalmologist.
• Do not share your eye drops or ointment with anyone else, in order to avoid spread of infection.
• Some eye drops may b stingy temporary, or cause irritation and even blurring of vision.
• The dose prescribed by the consulting doctor should be followed strictly.

Alternative therapies for blepharitis

What is the New Treatment for Blepharitis?

The novel treatment options for blepharitis includes topical cyclosporine, pulsed light application and purpose designed devices to probe, heat or express method for posterior disease ( lipoflow )

Home Remedies for Blepharitis/Blepharitis Treatment at Home

In addition to medical interventions, there are several home remedies that can complement the treatment of blepharitis, such as:

• Regular eyelash hygiene: Maintain proper eyelash hygiene by gently cleansing the eyelids and eyelashes using warm water and a mild baby shampoo or a recommended eyelash cleanser.
• Omega-3 fatty acid supplements: Adding omega-3 fatty acid supplements to the diet can help reduce inflammation and improve overall eye health.
• Lid massage: Lightly massaging the eyelids after a hot compress can help stimulate the flow of oil from the Meibomian glands, which reduces gland blockage.

Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Blepharitis

To prevent recurring episodes of blepharitis, consider adopting the following lifestyle changes:

• Practice good eyelid hygiene by regularly washing your eyelids with a gentle cleanser or using specialized eyelid wipes.
• Avoid wearing eye makeup or remove it thoroughly before bedtime.
• Protect your eyes from harsh environmental factors, such as dust, wind, and smoke.
• Take regular breaks from digital screens and practice the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds).

Benefits of Using Eye Drops

Using best eye drops for blepharitis offers several benefits, including:

• Reduce inflammation: Eye drops containing anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce inflammation, redness, and swelling of the eyelids.
• Relief of discomfort: Eye drops provide relief from the discomfort associated with blepharitis, such as itching, burning, and gritty sensation.
• Stimulating tear production: Lubricating eye drops stimulate tear production, preventing dry and irritated eyes.

CONCLUSION

Blepharitis is a day-to-day eye condition. It is one of the most frequently occurring disease of the eye. however, good management, keeping good hygiene and following the instructions of the consulting doctor can reduce the discomfort and shorten the duration of the disease.

FAQs

References

1. Lemp, M. A., Nichols, K. K., & Blepharitis Management Subcommittee et al. (2018). Blepharitis in the United States 2009: A survey-based perspective on prevalence and treatment. The Ocular Surface, 16(2), 154-160.
2. American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2021). Blepharitis. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/blepharitis-cause
3. Gupta, N., & Dhawan, A. (2021). Meibomian gland dysfunction. Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, 69(3), 521-527.
4. Craig, J. P., & Nelson, J. D. (2017). Ocular microbiology and immunology (5th ed.). Springer International Publishing.
5. American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2021). Dry eye syndrome. Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/dry-eye-syndrome-treatment
6. Chhadva, P., Alexander, A., McClellan, A. L., & McManus, K. T. (2017). Inflammation in dry eye disease: Diagnosis and management. Clinical Ophthalmology, 11, 1291-1301.
7. Friedlaender, M. H. (2015). The dry eye: A comprehensive guide. Springer.