Blepharitis is one of the most common ocular conditions characterized by inflammation, scaling, reddening, and crusting of the eyelid. Blepharitis and dry eyes often occur at the same time, This condition may also cause burning, itching, or a grainy sensation when introducing foreign objects or substances to the eye. Although blepharitis is not sight-threatening, it can lead to permanent alterations of the eyelid margin. The overall etiology is a result of bacteria and inflammation from congested meibomian oil glands at the base of each eyelash. Other conditions may give rise to blepharitis, whether they be infectious or noninfectious, including, but not limited to, bacterial infections or allergies.

Blepharitis Symptoms:

• Red eyes - due to dilated blood vessels on the sclera.
• Swollen eyelids - due to inflammation.
• Eyelid sticking - due to crusting along the eyelid margin.
• Eyelid itching - due to the irritation from inflammation and epidermis scaling of the eyelid.
• Flaking of skin on eyelids - due to tear film suppressed by clog meibomian glands.
• Gritty/burning sensation in the eye, or foreign-body sensation - due to crusting from bacteria and clogged oil glands
• Frequent blinking - due to impaired tear film from clogged oil glands unable to keep tears from evaporating.
• Eyelash loss - due to excessive buildup of bacteria along the base of the eyelashes.
• Infection of the eyelash follicle/sebaceous gland
• Debris in the tear film, seen under magnification