User:Mr. Ibrahem/Blepharitis

Blepharitis
Scaling and debris at the margin of the eyelid
Pronunciation	/blɛfəˈraɪtɪs/ BLEF-ər-EYE-tis
Specialty	Ophthalmology
Symptoms	Red, itchy, and crusty eyelids
Complications	Corneal ulcers
Duration	Usually long term
Types	Anterior, posterior
Risk factors	Dandruff, rosacea, oily skin, allergies
Diagnostic method	Eye exam
Differential diagnosis	Stye, chalazion, dry eye
Treatment	Regular cleaning of the eyelids
Medication	Antibiotic or steroid eye drops
Prognosis	Generally good
Frequency	Common (1% per year)

Blepharitis is an eye condition that results in inflammation of the eyelid margin. Symptoms commonly include red, itchy, and crusty eyelids. Other symptoms may include irritation of the eyes, swollen eyelids, and dry eyes. Complications may include eyelashes that grow in the wrong direction and corneal ulcers.

Risk factors include dandruff, rosacea, oily skin, and allergies. While the underlying mechanism often involves an excessive growth of bacteria, it is not contagious. There are two main types: anterior and posterior. Diagnosis is by eye exam.

Treatment is generally by regular cleaning of the eyelids. This can be carried out using warm water and baby shampoo. Occasionally antibiotic or steroid eye drops may be used. While outcomes are usually good, the condition if often long term.

Blepharitis is a common eye conditions. About 1% of people are estimated to be affected a year. It is more common in those over the age of 50. Females are affected more often than males. Of people seen by eye specialists in the United States about 40% had signs of blepharitis.