Are you over 40 and haven’t had a comprehensive eye check done in the last year? A VisionSafe Eye Check can help you diagnose and get advice about your blepharitis
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a very common eye condition. It is an inflammatory condition of the edges of the eyelids and sometimes blockage of the meibomian glands in the eyelids.
What causes blepharitis?
The causes of blepharitis are not always known, however, there are some factors that are commonly associated with it.
Anterior blepharitis affects the front of the eyelid, where the eyelashes are attached. Anterior blepharitis is caused by a sensitivity to a substance produced by bacteria (staphylococcus) normally found on the skin. Some people are sensitive to this substance ( a bacterial toxin) which leads to inflammation.
Posterior blepharitis affects the inner eyelid (the part that makes contact with the eye). This part of the eyelid contains tiny glands (called meibomian glands) that make oil. This oil helps to keep the eyes moist and comfortable. In blepharitis, these glands become blocked and irritated which prevents them from keeping the eyes properly lubricated. This can make the eyes feel sore or gritty and can make you prone to developing cysts or chalazion (small lumps or swellings) in the lids.
At a Glance
TREATMENT OPTIONS
Visit us for an VisionSafe Eye Check for advice on how to treat your bleparitis
YOUR SPECIALIST
Get the VisionSafe Eye Guide
How do you know you have blepharitis?
Blepharitis is associated with these common signs and symptoms:
- Red rimmed, sore eyes
- Sometimes crusting at the roots of the eyelashes
- Sometimes intermittently visual symptoms (e.g. blurred vision)
Our Patients Say…
“Extremely personable and reassuring. Knowledgeable. Explained options.Successful treatment so far.”
“Most attentive and sympathetic to a patient as well as explaining carefully any procedures.”
“Brilliant! Highly recommend.”
“Very professional yet personal and friendly. Calm & reassuring environment and personal at all levels.”
“Dr Patel explained everything clearly and carefully. No feeling of rush or push to have more procedures. Very friendly & charming reception throughout the clinic.”
“Thank you to Dr P for recommending me. I travelled from Kent and it was an extremely thorough consultation.”
“Everything well explained – great care & understanding. Would thoroughly recommend.”
“I was dealt with very professionally with great care to detail and treated with great kindness. Thank you.”
“I am impressed! You are very thorough.”
“Fuss-free and efficient. Friendly and reassuring.”
“This is an extremely well-run clinic and the staff are kind, understanding and efficient.”
“Very thorough examination & informative discussion.”
Get a consultation for blepharitis in St Albans
If you suspect you have blepharitis, then we advise you to book an eye consultation that includes:
- Clinical history
- Vision measurements
- Eye examination (sometimes dilated)
- Additional tests if your vision is blurred
Lid hygiene and ocular surface lubrication
Lid hygiene and ocular surface lubrication are blepharitis treatments that target the inflammation in the eyelids and open up the meibomian glands to improve the ocular surface and reduce your symptoms. Sometimes, we recommend eye drops to lubricate the ocular surface.
Contact us to book your consultation in St Albans.
Latest news from your eye doctor in St Albans
We regularly share new videos and blog posts for our St Albans patients about common eye questions and concerns. You can subscribe at the bottom of this page to receive the latest updates.
Vision loss after 40: A VisionSafe Eye Check might catch signs of AMD, glaucoma, macular or retinal conditions.
Vision loss after the age of 40 is common, and there are several reasons this happens. One of the most prevalent reasons is an age-related change in our focusing which means we are not able to read small print easily without glasses (also known as presbyopia). However, there are more serious eye conditions which can lead to irreversible vision loss if not detected at an early stage.
What is macular degeneration?
AMD is a condition which affects the retina, the light-sensitive membrane at the back of the eye. As we get older, we develop an accumulation of waste material underneath the retina. This accumulation can affect the function of the light-sensitive cells.
What is glaucoma treatment and how does glaucoma treatment work?
There are different types of glaucoma treatments. The mainstay of glaucoma treatments is to reduce intraocular (eye) pressure to slow down or stop the disease from worsening.
Memberships and affiliations
Our Consultant Ophthalmologists love to stay on top of the latest in eye treatment options for patients through regular industry meetings, journals and research.
Request a Call Back
Whether you’d like to book a VisionSafe Eye Check, or discover your eye treatment options, give us a call on: 01727 227 013 or request a call back below: