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Causes of Blepharitis
In most cases, these symptoms are acute, which means they do not last very long. In chronic blepharitis, autoimmune conditions, and eyelid cancer should be ruled out. However, the most common causes are listed below and include seborrheic dermatitis, atopic dermatitis, and meibomian gland dysfunction.
Seborrheic dermatitis
Seborrheic dermatitis, also known as seborrhea, is an inflammatory skin condition of the eyelids that produces symptoms such as redness, itching, greasy scales, and skin flaking. When it happens in your eyelids, this condition can also give rise to blepharitis.
One of the causes of seborrheic dermatitis and, consequently, blepharitis is an overgrowth of a naturally-occurring bacteria found on the skin called Malassezia. These bacteria can cause inflammation and irritation of the eyelids, leading to redness, itching, and skin flaking. In addition, the bacteria can also cause other symptoms, such as redness around the eyes, burning, and tearing.
Atopic dermatitis or eczema
Atopic dermatitis, also known as eczema, is a skin condition that affects many people and can manifest in various forms. When it involves the eyelids, it is another cause of blepharitis. This condition can be uncomfortable, with symptoms including redness, itching, scaling of the eyelids, and crusting of the eyelashes.
In this case, the trigger of atopic dermatitis and blepharitis is a topical agent that is in direct contact with the skin. It can be a drug you’re applying, a substance in your makeup, or creams you recently used in the eyelid area.
Meibomian gland dysfunction
Meibomian gland dysfunction is a common cause of blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelids. This condition is caused by a blockage of the meibomian glands, which are located in the eyelids and produce oils that keep the tear film on the eye’s surface stable. When these glands become blocked, the tear film cannot form properly, resulting in dry, itchy, and red eyes.
Although meibomian gland dysfunction is a common cause of blepharitis, consulting an eye specialist can help you determine the causes and find the best treatment course.
Allergic reactions
One common cause of blepharitis is an allergic reaction to makeup or eye drops. Allergens in many beauty products can trigger a reaction, leading to redness and swelling of the eyelid margins.
Furthermore, the use of eye drops can cause clogging of the meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing oil that lubricates and protects the surface of the eyes. This clogging can cause inflammation and irritation of the eyelids, leading to the development of blepharitis.
It is essential to be aware of the ingredients in your makeup and eyedrops and to avoid any products that contain ingredients that you may be sensitive to. If blepharitis is suspected, it is best to discontinue the use of the product and seek medical attention.
