Understanding Blepharitis and Its Impact on Contact Lens Use
Blepharitis is a common inflammatory condition that affects the eyelids and base of the eyelashes. It causes red, irritated, itchy eyelids and flaky crusts around the lashes. For contact lens wearers, blepharitis can make wearing lenses very uncomfortable or even impossible.
What Is Blepharitis?
Blepharitis refers to chronic inflammation along the edges of the eyelids. There are two main types of blepharitis:
- Anterior blepharitis affects the front of the eyelids, where the eyelashes connect to the skin.
- Posterior blepharitis affects the inner parts of the eyelids and the meibomian glands, which are oil-producing glands that keep tears in place.
Symptoms of Blepharitis
Common symptoms of blepharitis include:
- Red, swollen eyelids
- Greasy flakes or crust on lashes and eyelids
- Itching and burning of eyes and eyelids
- Gritty feeling in eyes
- Tearing
- Sensitivity to light
What Causes Blepharitis?
There are a few possible causes of blepharitis:
- Overgrowth of bacteria or yeast around the base of the eyelashes
- Blockage or inflammation of the oil glands in the eyelids
- Allergies or sensitivities to skincare products, makeup, or contact solutions
- Skin disorders like rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis
- Inflammation from disorders like tear duct cysts or dry eyes
Impact of Blepharitis on Contact Lenses
For those with blepharitis, contact lens wear can irritate the condition and make eyes feel even more uncomfortable or gritty. Blepharitis causes bacteria and debris to build up along the base of the lashes and eyelid margins.
Symptoms When Wearing Contacts
Those with blepharitis often experience the following contact lens problems:
- Difficulty keeping lenses in place
- Redness under lenses
- Burning or stinging under lenses
- Eye fatigue or dryness when wearing lenses
- Itchy eyelid margins
- Mucus discharge in eyes
- Hazy vision with lenses in
Avoiding Further Irritation
To prevent blepharitis flare ups and reduce irritation from contact lenses:
- Clean eyelids daily with a warm compress to remove crusts and flakes
- Gently scrub the eyelash base with baby shampoo or tea tree oil cleanser using a cotton swab
- Limit lens wear during outbreaks
- Use disposable contacts rather than reusable
- Replace contact solution daily
- Switch contact brands or solutions if one seems irritating
Treating Blepharitis to Improve Contact Lens Tolerance
While blepharitis currently has no cure, it can be managed well with a daily treatment regimen to improve eyelid health and allow for better contact lens wear.
Eyelid Hygiene and Warm Compresses
Keeping the eyelid margins clean is crucial. Do daily eyelid scrubs and apply warm compresses for 10-15 minutes to loosen debris and oil secretions.
Medications
Medications may include antibiotic or antifungal ointments and eye drops to control microorganism overgrowth. Oral antibiotics may be prescribed in stubborn cases.
Anti-inflammatory Medications
Steroid drops or ointments can reduce inflammation. These pose risks with long-term use, so patients are monitored closely.
Omega-3 Supplements
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements can reduce eyelid inflammation and improve meibomian gland functioning.
Preventing Blepharitis Flare-Ups
While blepharitis is difficult to eliminate completely, keeping flare-ups under control is important for managing symptoms and wearing contact lenses comfortably.
Daily Eyelid Hygiene
This is key for keeping bacteria, allergens, and oil buildup to a minimum along the lash line.
Identify and Avoid Irritants
Pinpoint products that aggravate the eyelids like cosmetics, skin products, and contact solutions. Discontinue use.
Control Allergies and Other Health Conditions
Effectively manage environmental allergies, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitis to prevent blepharitis from worsening.
Healthy Sleep Habits
Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly. Sleep deficiency worsens inflammation and impedes healing.
Alternative Options if Blepharitis Persists
For moderate to advanced blepharitis that remains poorly controlled, several alternative options exist:
Punctal Plugs
These tiny plugs block tear drainage, keeping moisture on the eyes to reduce irritation from blepharitis and contact lens discomfort.
Lipiflow Thermal Pulsation Treatment
This in-office treatment uses heat and massage to clear blockages in oil glands to improve tear film stability and reduce dry spots.
Intense Pulsed Light Therapy
Low levels of IPL applied to eyelids may help control inflammation and clear clogs in meibomian glands to minimize symptoms.
Oral Medications
For very stubborn, chronic blepharitis cases, prescription anti-inflammatory pills may be tried but can pose side effect risks.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
Add Comment