What Is Anterior Blepharitis?

Anterior blepharitis is an inflammation which affects the outside of the eyelids, close to the eyelashes. There are two varieties of this surprisingly common condition:

Staphylococcal anterior blepharitis: A chronic infection by the bacteria staphylococcus of the base of the eye lashes. It is characterised by flaking or crusting on the lashes and redness of the lid margins.

Seborrhoeic blepharitis: Due to an overproduction of sebum (oil) from the sebaceous glands around the lashes. The lid margins appear greasy with scaling along the lashes which may be stuck together.

Both varieties affect the quality of the tear film and can result in symptoms of dryness, grittiness, irritation of the eyelids or general soreness in the eyes. Some people report no symptoms, but may suffer from exaggerated dryness symptoms following Laser Eye Surgery due to the pre-existing blepharitis.

Treatment For Anterior Blepharitis

The recommended treatment for anterior blepharitis depends on the severity of the condition. However, the most common, effective treatment for anterior blepharitis is the use of eyelid scrubs.

Mix 2 drops of Johnson’s Baby Shampoo with ½ cup warm water (pre-boiled).  Dip a clean cotton wool pad into the solution and with the eyes closed, rub the pad along the lid margins Rinse off with clean warm water.

Alternatively, your optometrist may recommend one of the following proprietary cleansers, which can be easily ordered online:

• Ocusoft Pads (Scope Ophthalmic)
• Lid-Care Sterile Wipes (Norvatis)
• Supranettes (Alcon)

The eyelid cleaning routine should be carried out morning and night, or as prescribed by your practitioner.

In more chronic cases, you may also be prescribed an antibacterial product such as Fucithalmic eye drops which is to be taken as advised by your optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Compliance to the prescribed routine is essential.