What Is Blepharitis?
Blepharitis is an inflammatory eyelid condition that occurs when glands in the eyelids become blocked. It typically affects both eyes and often occurs alongside dry eye syndrome.
Your ophthalmologist at Short Hills Ophthalmology can determine what's causing your symptoms. Some of the reasons you may have blepharitis include:
- Parasites like Demodex eyelash mites
- Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD)
- Bacterial eyelid infection
- Dry eyes
- Fungal eyelid infection
- Allergies that affect your lashes
- Skin conditions such as rosacea, dandruff, or seborrhoeic dermatitis
Blepharitis Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of blepharitis are:
- Sticky eyelids and eyelashes
- Red eyes
- Itchy eyelids
- Burning sensation in the eyes
- Greasy looking eyelids
- Watery eyes
- Red, swollen lids
- Crusty eyelids in the morning
- Loss of eyelashes
- Eyelashes growing abnormally
- Dandruff-like flakes on your lashes
BlephEx Treatment
Eyelid inflammation and meibomian gland blockages linked to blepharitis often come from crusty debris and bacteria accumulating on your upper and lower eyelids and the base of your eyelashes. BlephEx is an in-office treatment that gently exfoliates your eyelashes and lids, removing any buildup without harming your eyes.
How BlephEx Works
BlephEx, a patented handheld device, spins a medical-grade, disposable micro-sponge along your eyelashes and the edges of your eyelids. Cleaning your eyelashes and eyelids helps to very carefully and precisely open clogged meibomian glands and eliminate any debris that causes blepharitis.
The micro-sponge is used once for each eye individually to prevent the spread of bacteria between your eyelids. BlephEx eliminates the underlying cause of your blepharitis. The in-office procedure takes approximately 10-15 minutes to complete.
What to Expect After Treatment
Patients experience a difference right after the treatment, but this varies based on the severity and stage of blepharitis. If your tear glands have suffered significant damage due to blepharitis, it might take a few months before you notice considerable changes in your symptoms.
Ongoing Maintenance
Many patients undergo BlephEx treatment every 4 to 6 months. Regular treatments prevent the biofilm from forming again and keep the recurring symptoms of blepharitis from occurring.
Your eye doctor will ultimately recommend the best treatment schedule to provide the most long-term relief.
BlephEx at Short Hills Ophthalmology
Short Hills Ophthalmology is proud to offer BlephEx as a treatment for blepharitis. BlephEx is a painless and effective treatment that can provide rapid relief from your symptoms.
Choosing BlephEx helps keep your eyelids and eyelashes healthier and allows you to live without the ongoing symptoms of chronic blepharitis.
Do you want to learn more about treating blepharitis with BlephEx? Schedule an appointment at Short Hills Ophthalmology in Short Hills and Clifton, NJ. You don't have to continue struggling with the symptoms of blepharitis.
