Blepharitis: Information, Research, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

The below provides a general overview on this topic and may not apply to everyone. Any treatment protocol should be discussed with a qualified healthcare practitioner. Please refer to: Medical & Legal Disclaimer.

i What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids. It is characterized by inflammation of the eyelid margins. Blepharitis usually causes redness of the eyes and itching and irritation of the eyelids in both eyes. Its appearance is often confused with conjunctivitis and due to its recurring nature it is the most common cause of "recurrent conjunctivitis".

Types of Blepharitis

1

Anterior Blepharitis

Affects the front of the eyelids. The causes are seborrheic dermatitis (similar to dandruff) and occasional infection by Staphylococcus bacteria.

2

Posterior Blepharitis

Affects the back of the eyelids, the part that makes contact with the eyes. This is caused by the oil glands present in this region. It is by far, the most common type of blepharitis.

Important: The Following Information is Applicable to BIRDS!

Any treatment protocol (including the below) is to be discussed with a medical professional (vet or medical doctor).

Treatment Recommendations:

1

Hot Compresses

Apply hot compresses to both eyes for 5 minutes once to twice per day.

Recommended: Warm chamomile teabags work GREAT and are anti-inflammatory! Pour hot water over chamomile teabag - pull bag out, press most of the water out of the teabag and allow to dry to comfortable heat and hold over bird's eye - gently and carefully!

2

Ophthalmic Ointment

Your doctor / vet may suggest an ophthalmic ointment (e.g. erythromycin) to clean eye with.

3

Advanced Treatment Options

Depending on the inflammation, a combination of topical antibiotic and steroid drops or ointments can be prescribed to provide instant relief.

Warning: This harbors significant risks such as increased intraocular pressure and posterior subcapsular cataract formation.

4

Additional Medications

Medical professionals may also prescribe anti-inflammatory or anti-fungal medication or brief courses of a mild topical steroid.

Information contained on this website is provided as general reference only. For application to specific circumstances, professional advice should be sought.

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