Difference Between Blepharitis and Stye

In the presence of bacterial blepharitis, an abscess (a collection of pus surrounded by inflamed tissue) may form in the sweat glands or hair follicles normally present in the anterior layer of the eyelid, producing a stye. A stye develops rapidly, producing an elevated, painful, red, swollen area on the eyelid.

1. What is the difference between blepharitis and chalazion?
2. What does blepharitis look like?
3. What is the fastest way to cure blepharitis?
4. What triggers blepharitis?
5. Can you pop blepharitis?
6. How do I know if its a stye or chalazion?
7. What can make blepharitis worse?
8. What happens if blepharitis is left untreated?
9. Does Vaseline help blepharitis?
10. How long does it take to clear up blepharitis?
11. Can you wear mascara with blepharitis?
12. How do I know if I have eyelash mites?

What is the difference between blepharitis and chalazion?

A chalazion is a small firm bulge in the eyelid caused by a blocked opening or infection of the oil producing glands located in the upper or lower eyelids. Chalazia are frequently associated with a condition called blepharitis. Chalazia may be uncomfortable, look abnormal, or interfere with vision.

What does blepharitis look like?

A gritty, burning or stinging sensation in the eyes. Eyelids that appear greasy. Itchy eyelids. Red, swollen eyelids.

What is the fastest way to cure blepharitis?

Apply a warm washcloth to your closed eyelids for up to five minutes. Gently rub your closed eyelids with a diluted solution of baby shampoo. Use a clean washcloth or clean fingers. You might need to hold the lid away from your eye to rub along the lash margin.

What triggers blepharitis?

Most of the time, blepharitis happens because you have too much bacteria on your eyelids at the base of your eyelashes. Having bacteria on your skin is normal, but too much bacteria can cause problems. You can also get blepharitis if the oil glands in your eyelids get clogged or irritated.

Can you pop blepharitis?

Don't pop, squeeze, or touch a stye.

It might seem tempting, but squeezing will release pus and may spread the infection. See a doctor if the stye is on the inside of your eyelid. Your doctor may drain the stye in their office.

How do I know if its a stye or chalazion?

A stye can cause the eyelid to become swollen, even torn. It's also very tender to the touch and usually is red and irritated. If the bump is on the underside of the eyelid, or behind the eyelashes, or midway up the eyelid, it's probably a chalazion. This type of bump is more likely to form on the upper eyelid.

What can make blepharitis worse?

Blepharitis tends to be worse in cold windy weather, air-conditioned environments, prolonged computer usage, sleep deprivation, contact lens wear, and with general dehydration. It also tends to be worse in the presence of active skin disease e.g. acne rosacea, seborrhoeic dermatitis.

What happens if blepharitis is left untreated?

Left untreated, blepharitis can cause dry eyes, loss of cilia, formation of chalazia and hordeola, and even corneal ulceration and vascularization. Untreated blepharitis is a common cause of Salzmann's nodular dystrophy. In addition, blepharitis greatly increases the risk of endophthalmitis following ocular surgery.

Does Vaseline help blepharitis?

If you have sensitive skin, or conditions such as eyelid dermatitis or blepharitis, using Vaseline can be a safe way for you to moisturize your eyelashes.

How long does it take to clear up blepharitis?

The condition may resolve nicely only to return in a few weeks. Many people with blepharitis experience it chronically. Three alternative treatments have been developed to offer a different approach to traditional warm compresses, messy lid scrubs, and antibiotics.

Can you wear mascara with blepharitis?

Makeup can worsen blepharitis, and for patients with severe flares or chronic ongoing problems necessitate a makeup “holiday.” Many patients can resume makeup once the blepharitis is improved, but it is best to choose brands formulated without the more synthetic parabens and waxes.

How do I know if I have eyelash mites?

Symptoms of eyelash mites include itchiness, redness, dry eye, crusty and sticky lashes, blurry vision, and scaly or rough patches of skin around the eyes. Both at-home and medical treatment methods are highly effective at controlling an eyelash mite outbreak.