Blepharitis means “inflammation of the eyelids”. It can present in many ways, including with eyelid redness and/or swelling, matter buildup, debris on the eyelashes, itching of the eyelids, dry eye symptoms, tearing, loss of eyelashes, and light sensitivity. Blepharitis can be predominantly 1) anterior, with significant debris and excess bacteria on the eyelids and eyelashes, 2) posterior, with plugging of the Meibomian oil glands near the eye lashes, or 3) a combination of both.
Although this condition is uncomfortable, it is not contagious and usually does not cause any permanent damage to your vision. Typically self-treatment measures such as lid hygiene, or cleansing with commercially available eyelid scrubs, and application of warm compress to the surface of the eye, are enough to relieve blepharitis symptoms.
If blepharitis symptoms do not improve despite regular care and cleaning of the eye area, then it may be necessary for other treatment options, including nutritional supplementation, medications, and prescription eye-drops.