Blepharitis is a common condition characterized by inflammation of the eyelids.
Understanding Blepharitis
Blepharitis (pronounced blef-uh-RYE-tis) is a condition that causes the eyelids to become inflamed. This typically affects both eyes, particularly along the edges where the eyelashes are located. It's not usually contagious and doesn't permanently damage eyesight, but it can be uncomfortable and bothersome.
Key Aspects of Blepharitis
Blepharitis arises from various factors, leading to irritation and redness. Here’s a summary of its core elements:
| Aspect | Description |
|---|---|
| Definition | Inflammation of the eyelids. |
| Pronunciation | blef-uh-RYE-tis |
| Affected Area | Typically affects both eyes along the edges of the eyelids. |
| Common Cause | Often occurs when tiny oil glands near the base of the eyelashes become clogged. |
| Common Effects | Leads to irritation and redness. |
| Contributing Factors | Can be caused or exacerbated by several underlying diseases and conditions. |
Why Blepharitis Occurs
The most frequent reason blepharitis develops is due to the malfunctioning of tiny oil glands, known as Meibomian glands, located at the base of the eyelashes. When these glands become clogged, they fail to produce enough healthy tears or produce tears of poor quality, leading to irritation, redness, and inflammation of the eyelid margins. Besides clogged glands, other conditions and diseases can also contribute to or cause blepharitis, making it a multifaceted condition.
