Did you know that dirty eyelids can cause tear gland damage? Many people don’t think about keeping their eyes clean. When we are young, our eyes do this pretty well on their own. But, as we age, our bodies change. We produce fewer antibodies in tear film, which can create conditions for bacteria to thrive. This can lead to a problem known as Blepharitis.
What is Blepharitis?
Blepharitis is used to describe an inflammation of the eyelids. It usually occurs when the oil glands at the base of eyelashes are clogged. The eyes become irritated and red. It looks unsightly and is usually a chronic condition. Blepharitis isn’t contagious, but it is uncomfortable and can be a sign of an underlying health problem. Symptoms include:
- Itchy, red eyes
- Watery eyes
- Swelling of eyelids
- Skin flaking around eyes
- Sticky eyelids
- Increased blinking
- Light sensitivity
- Abnormal eyelash growth
- Stinging or burning in eyes
- Greasy looking eyelids
- Loss of eyelashes
- Crusty eyelashes when waking up
How Does a BlephEx Treatment Work?
The BlephEx treatment was inspired by the methods used in the dental industry to keep teeth clean. Patients used to be sent home with a lid scrub that they often didn’t use because it was inconvenient and uncomfortable.
The BlephEx microsponge is used by your ophthalmologist in the office. It is a small device with a spinning tip that rotates at 1,000 RPM. The PVA sponge on the end is gentle and will carefully remove buildup along the edge of the eyelid. Your doctor knows what to look for, so they can precisely remove everything they find far more effectively than the at-home lid scrubs.
Bacteria isn’t given a chance to build up, which means the patient won’t have to deal with blepharitis. If you experience issues with your eyelids, contact Grosinger, Spigelman & Grey’s Michigan’s Leading Eye Care Physicians located in Bloomfield Hills to make an appointment.