Blepharitis is a common condition that affects the eyelids, causing inflammation and resulting in crust on the eyelashes. These crusts can fall into the and can give an irritated feeling of grittiness and can lead to further irritation if rubbing of the eyes persists. Blepharitis can be persistent and can reoccur regularly, and allergies that are triggered from things such as pollen, animal fur and smoke can all contribute and prolong the discomfort.

The irritation can be relieved in a few ways including using hot compresses like a clean flannel. Soaking the flannel or a cotton wool ball in hot water and wringing it out and holding it against the closed eye. After this, apply a cotton bud that has been dipped in hot water and massage the whole width of the outside of the eyelids, aiming to dislodge the plugs that were melted from compressing the flannel or cotton ball. Using an Eyebag is the ideal way to apply a warm compress.

Antibiotics may be used as treatment to help get the condition under control and is usually prescribed in a form of cream or an ointment which is massaged into the eyelids after cleaning the lids.

At Bush the Opticians we recommend getting into contact with us if you have any concerns about your eyes and a member of our team can talk you through treatment, advise you on ways to keep your eyes healthy and any other queries you may have.