Ocular Allergies & Blepheritis
Allergies can affect many different areas of the body, including the eyes. Ocular allergies result in swollen eyes/eyelids, redness, itching, tearing, and light sensitivity. Itching is typically the primary symptom although eye fatigue and a burning sensation also produce the desire to rub the eyes. Ocular allergies can be either acute or chronic with intermittent exposure to allergens or persist exposure, affecting the length of the symptoms.
Ocular allergies can be more than annoying. They can affect the quality of life and the ability to function at work and school.
Sometimes, dry eye syndrome symptoms can be mistaken for ocular allergies, necessitating an assessment and diagnosis before adequate treatment can begin.
Blepharitis is also the inflammation of the eyelids but is caused by either bacteria or a skin condition such as rosacea or dandruff of the scalp. Anterior blepharitis is seen on the outside front edge of the eyelid where the eyelashes are. Posterior blepharitis is seen on the inner lid where it touches the eyeball.
In most types of blepharitis, it is important to keep the eyelids clean and the crusts cleared away. Warm compresses and gentle scrubs with baby shampoo or over-the-counter lid cleansers will loosen and remove the crusts. If a bacterial infection is found, antibiotics may be needed.
Parkview Optometry is available to assess and diagnose your symptoms of dry eye, ocular allergies, or blepharitis.
