10032 Blepharitis
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Blepharitis is an inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the eyelids, usually at the edges where the eyelashes grow. It can make your eyelids red, itchy, crusty, and uncomfortable, and it often affects both eyes. It is not contagious and rarely causes lasting damage to your eyesight if managed well.
Key facts
- Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelid margins, not an infection of the eye itself.
- It tends to be a long-term condition, but it can be controlled with regular eyelid hygiene.
- It is not contagious, so you cannot catch it from or pass it to someone else.
Yes, blepharitis is one of the most common eyelid conditions seen by GPs and eye care professionals. Many people have mild symptoms from time to time.
It can affect people of any age, but it becomes more common as you get older. It often appears in people who have dandruff, oily skin, or a skin condition called rosacea.
Symptoms
- Sudden loss of vision in one or both eyes
- Severe eye pain that does not go away
- Redness and swelling around the eye that spreads quickly, especially if you also have a fever
- An injury to the eye, such as a cut or chemical splash
- Difficulty moving your eye or seeing double
- If you have any of these symptoms, call your local emergency number immediately.
- ⚠Redness, swelling, or pain that gets worse despite warm compresses and gentle eyelid cleaning
- ⚠A painful, growing lump on the eyelid that does not settle within a few days
- ⚠Blurred vision or a change in your usual eyesight
- ⚠Light sensitivity or a constant feeling that something is stuck in your eye
- ⚠If you wear contact lenses and your eye becomes red or painful, stop wearing them and seek same-day advice from your GP or eye care service.
Common symptoms
- Itchy or burning eyelids
- Redness and swelling along the eyelid edges
- A gritty or sandy feeling in your eyes
- Crusting or flaking at the base of the eyelashes, often worse in the morning
- Eyelids that feel sticky, heavy, or difficult to open
- Watery eyes or excess tearing
- Mild sensitivity to bright light
Causes
Main causes
- Overgrowth of bacteria that normally live on the skin around the eyelids
- Blocked oil (meibomian) glands inside the eyelids
- Skin conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, which causes dandruff on the scalp and face
- Rosacea, a skin condition that causes facial redness and flushing
- Allergies to eye makeup, contact lens solutions, or other irritants
Risk factors
- Having dandruff or oily skin
- A history of rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis
- Wearing contact lenses
- Using eye makeup, especially eyeliner, without removing it thoroughly
- Living in a dry, dusty, or windy environment
- Having a tendency to get styes or chalazia
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- If you have sudden vision changes
- If you have severe eye pain
- If the eye becomes very red, swollen, or painful and home care is not helping
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you have mild, recurring eyelid redness or crusting
- If you are not sure whether your symptoms are blepharitis or something else
- If you have tried eyelid hygiene for a few weeks and symptoms are not improving
Diagnosis
Your GP or an eye care professional will usually diagnose blepharitis by looking at your eyelids and eyes. They may ask about your symptoms, your general health, and any skin conditions you have.
Tests that may be done
- Usually no test is needed.
- Your doctor may use a magnifying light (slit lamp) to examine your eyelashes and oil glands more closely.
- If there is a concern about infection, they may take a small swab from your eyelid to send to the laboratory.
What to expect at your appointment
The examination is quick and painless. Your doctor will look at your eyelid edges, the base of your lashes, and the surface of your eye. They will then explain what you can do at home and may suggest treatments to calm the inflammation.
Treatment
Treatment for blepharitis focuses on keeping your eyelid margins clean and managing any underlying skin condition. Most people need to make eyelid hygiene a daily habit, just like brushing their teeth.
Self-care at home
- Place a warm, clean flannel or a heat mask over your closed eyelids for 5 to 10 minutes, twice a day, to soften crusts and warm the oil glands.
- Gently wipe along the base of your eyelashes with a clean, damp cloth or cotton bud dipped in warm water, moving from the inner corner outward.
- Use a separate clean cloth for each eye to avoid spreading irritation.
- Take regular breaks from screens and blink fully to spread tears across your eyes.
- Remove all eye makeup thoroughly before going to sleep.
- Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes with unclean hands.
Medical treatments
Your doctor may recommend lubricating eye drops or an ointment to soothe dryness. If there is a bacterial infection, they may prescribe antibiotic ointment, drops, or tablets. If inflammation is more significant, a doctor may suggest a short course of steroid eye drops, but only when eyelid hygiene alone has not been enough. Always follow the advice of your healthcare provider.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is rarely needed for simple blepharitis. If a blocked oil gland becomes a persistent, painful lump called a chalazion, a specialist may drain it with a minor procedure in the clinic. This is usually a last resort after trying eyelid hygiene and warm compresses.
Living with this condition
Living with blepharitis usually means making eyelid cleaning part of your daily routine, much like brushing your teeth. Symptoms can come and go, but sticking with the routine helps keep flare-ups shorter and milder.
Lifestyle tips
- Wash your face daily and keep the eyelid area clean.
- Reduce or avoid eye makeup during flare-ups.
- Change your pillowcases and washcloths regularly.
- If you wear contact lenses, follow your lens care routine carefully and consider taking a break during flare-ups.
- Use a humidifier at home or work if the air feels dry.
Diet and exercise
Eating a balanced diet and staying hydrated supports overall skin and eye health. Regular exercise can help your circulation and general wellbeing, but avoid getting sweat in your eyes during activities and wash your face afterward.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Having a visible eye condition can be frustrating and can affect your confidence, especially if symptoms flare often. It is normal to feel fed up at times. Talk to your doctor or an eye care professional if symptoms are making you upset or affecting your daily life.
Prevention
You cannot always prevent blepharitis, but good eyelid hygiene can reduce flare-ups. Regular warm compresses and gentle cleaning of the eyelid margins can help keep the oil glands open and remove excess bacteria.
Complications
If left untreated
- Recurrent styes, which are painful red lumps at the eyelid edge
- A chalazion, which is a firm lump caused by a blocked oil gland
- Dry eye syndrome, because the tear film becomes unstable
- Conjunctivitis, which is inflammation of the thin layer over the white of the eye
- Damage to the cornea in severe cases, which could affect your vision
Long-term outlook
The outlook is generally good. Blepharitis is often a long-term condition, but it is very manageable. With a consistent eyelid hygiene routine and the right guidance from your healthcare team, most people can keep symptoms under control and protect their eyesight.
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
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Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.