Blepharitis is the medical term given to the inflammation of the eyelids. In this condition, the eyes either become completely red or form a kind of red rim around the eyes and the eyelids feel constantly itchy and irritated. The other symptoms are burning sensation, excessive flow of tears, excessive debris collecting at the corners of the eyelids, loss or excessive growth of eyelashes, etc. Blepharitis is of two types – anterior and posterior.


In anterior blepharitis, the front of the eyelids is affected. This is the area where the lashes are attached to the eyelids. This condition is caused by yeast that appears on the skin of those people whose immune system is very low or whose skin produces excess sebum.


In posterior blepharitis, the infection takes root behind the eyelids. This happens when the oil glands of the eyelids produce more oil than what is required. This excess oil attracts bacteria which then causes the infection. As both types of blepharitis are caused due to skin related or sebum/oil related problems, chances are that it will keep recurring at regular intervals. Therefore, whatever treatments you administer to your eyes will have to be done for a prolonged period of time.

The one thing that you will need to do diligently everyday is to meticulously clean your eyelids inside out. Clean the eyelids with either plain warm water or with a few drops of baby shampoo mixed in warm water. Doing this will not remove the problem entirely but will help in bringing down the irritation considerably. There are certain herbs and plants that contain chemicals and ingredients that help in bringing down the inflammation. Some of these herbs are eyebright, mullein, and goldenseal. To get the maximum benefits out of these herbs, you need to first boil them in water. Once the water cools down, soak cotton eye-pads in this water and place them on the eyes as compress. Leave the compresses for 10-15 minutes, remove them, clean the eyelids and the area around it, and repeat the whole process once again. Do this two to three times throughout the day. These should take care of the irritation. However, if you notice that your vision is being affected or your eyes are hurting, get in touch with your ophthalmologist immediately. In such a scenario, medial treatment becomes a must. Apart from this, make it a point to eat food such as carrots, fish, and spinach,   which are good for the eyes.