Blepharitis is a medical term that is composed of the Greek "βλέφαρον" which means "eyelid", plus the suffix "itis" which means "inflammation" therefore the word refers to an inflammation in the area of the eyelids. Blepharitis is a frequent and continuous condition that consists of the swelling or inflammation of the eyelids where the eyelash follicles are located, it occurs when particles of fat and bacteria plug the edge of the eyelid near the base of the eyelashes.
Blepharitis causes uncomfortable irritation, redness, burning, and itching in the eye area. It should be noted that the causes of blepharitis are not clearly known but it can be related to a bacterial eye infection, dry eye symptoms or other types of skin diseases. Although other sources state that when an individual suffers from this condition, their sebaceous glands, which are close to the eyelid, produce a large amount of oil. Blepharitis is usually related to repetitive styes and chalazions.
The manifestations of this condition range from irritated eyes, with scales that adhere to the base of the eyelashes; but in addition, the eyelids may suffer from burning, itching, inflammation or be red or crusty.
There are several types of blepharitis, which are: the previous one, which damages the outer part of the eyelid, where the eyelashes are found. The posterior blepharitis, is caused by the secretion of small sebaceous glands found in the eyelids, called meibomian glands. And rosacea is linked to ocular rosacea, which causes an inflammation of the eyelids and redness of the eye thanks to the malfunction of the sebaceous glands.
