Plus Causes and Symptoms for these Painful, Itchy Eye Conditions
Blepharitis and styes are similar to one another in that they both can cause your eyelid to swell. They are also two of the most common eye conditions to cause this uncomfortable symptom. While both can be caused by bacteria and have similar symptoms, there are some differences to the two conditions, plus sometimes they have to be treated differently.
In this article, we take a look at the similarities and differences between styes and blepharitis, and how each is treated.
Causes
Both blepharitis and styes can be caused by staphylococcus aureus bacteria (staph infection) or by blockages in the glands along the eyelid. Other problems that can contribute to blepharitis include rosacea, allergies, dandruff, seborrheic dermatitis, meibomian gland dysfunction, mites, lice, and dry eyes. Styes can also be attributed to rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis, diabetes, dry skin, hormonal changes, high cholesterol, contact lenses, and contaminated eye drops or cosmetics.
Symptoms
Both styes and blepharitis can lead to painful swelling (inflammation) of the eyelid. The key difference is in how this infection develops. Blepharitis typically develops along the entire eyelid. On the other hand, a stye develops as a single nodule on a particular oil or sweat gland. There are also a few differences in symptoms.
Blepharitis:
- Eyelid swelling
- Crusting along the eyelid
- Pain
- Sensitivity to light
- Itchy/scratchy feeling
- Burning
- Excessive tearing
- Blurred vision
- Flaky skin
- Oil buildup
Stye:
- Eyelid swelling
- Crusting along the eyelid
- Pain
- Itchy/scratchy feeling
- A red lump on the eyelid
Diagnosis
Both styes and blepharitis are diagnosed after a close examination of the eye by your doctor. Usually, your eye doctor may use bright lights or a magnifier to get a good look at the problem. In some cases, cultures (samples of discharge) may be taken to identify the bacteria that is causing the condition.
Treatment
If your eye doctor believes you have blepharitis or a stye caused by bacteria, they will prescribe an antibiotic eye drop or ointment to help treat the bacterial infection.
Blepharitis can be both acute (sudden onset) and chronic (long lasting). Finding out whether you have acute or chronic blepharitis can help you better treat the inflammation. While acute blepharitis can be treated with antibiotics, chronic blepharitis may need some additional treatments, such as controlling the underlying condition leading to the chronic nature of the inflammation. You can also use a warm compress to help with pain, keeping the inflamed area clean by washing regularly with warm water and a mild soap or using steroid eye drops.
On top of an antibiotic treatment for a stye, warm compresses should also be used throughout the day to help clear the gland where the blockage is. Remember to never squeeze the stye!
When treating blepharitis or a stye, don’t forget to wash your hands before applying an ointment or a warm compress. Then wash your hands again afterward to avoid spreading the bacteria to your other eye. It is also recommended that you replace contacts, eye drops, and cosmetics as recommended by their manufacturers and your healthcare providers to avoid contaminating your eye. You should also practice good hygiene by washing your face properly to help avoid buildup of dead skin cells that can lead to blockage of glands on the eyelid.
Key Takeaways
Both styes and blepharitis can be painful and annoying. However, the right treatment can help you find relief from the itchy and inflammatory symptoms. Working with your eye doctor to find the underlying cause for the infection will ensure the proper treatment, particularly for chronic blepharitis.
Are you suffering from itchy and inflamed eyes? Schedule an appointment today with Black Diamond Eye Care and we’ll help diagnose and treat any of your annoying and painful eye conditions!
