Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid that leads to swelling. Among other things, allergies, or blockage of the tiny oil glands near the base of the eyelashes can cause blepharitis.
The affected eye may be watery or irritated and red and feel as though there is something in it. The skin around the eye may be itchy and flaky, and eyelids may appear crusty or stuck together. Other symptoms include eyelashes that grow abnormally and eyebrow loss.
Though uncomfortable, blepharitis is not contagious and usually doesn't cause permanent damage to your eyesight. Effective treatment depends on treating the underlying cause. If the cause is due to an allergy, eliminating exposure to the allergen and using antihistamine eye drops may help.
If you have blepharitis, be sure to clean the affected area regularly, and if you don't notice an improvement, see your doctor.
