All of us have at some point suffered from the effects of puffy or droopy eyelids. However, if you notice your eyelid swelling continues to bother you and is accompanied by other symptoms, you might be suffering from the effects of blepharitis. Blepharitis is a chronic condition that needs to be treated with the help of an optometrist. At Riviera Opticare, our optometry specialists can help diagnose and treat your blepharitis. If you feel your blepharitis is impeding your life in Scottsdale or Mesa, we are ready to assist you.

What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a swelling of the eyelid, and it can affect the lower part of the eyelid or the upper eyelid. Blepharitis is caused when oil glands in the eyelashes become clogged. Blepharitis usually occurs in both eyes, though there are cases where it only affects one.

Symptoms of blepharitis can range from uncomfortable to debilitating and can include:

• Watery eyes
• Itchy eyes
• Blurry vision that improves upon blinking
• Red eyes
• Swollen eyes
• A sensation of grit in the eyes
• Crusting around the eyes

Although there is no particular cause for blepharitis, some people are more at risk of developing the condition, including:

• People with allergies
• Genetic predisposition to blepharitis
• People with rosacea
• Dry eyes
• Those with dandruff, also known as seborrheic dermatitis, in the eyebrows or scalp

How Can an Eye Doctor Help?

Blepharitis can severely impact your quality of life, especially if you continue to have swelling despite treatment such as self-care, eye washes, and warm compresses. Our eye doctor at Riveria Opticare can help determine if your symptoms are truly due to blepharitis, or if there is another eye condition such as dry eye that is causing your symptoms. They can also prescribe the proper treatment to reduce symptoms, which can include medications to fight off infections and improve the immune system's function. Medications that reduce inflammation can also be used. Although there is no 100% cure for blepharitis, these medications combined with proper eye care can greatly improve your symptoms.

Contact Us of Eye Care in Scottsdale, AZ, and Mesa, AZ

You don't have to live with blepharitis forever. At Riviera Opticare, our optometry professionals have been providing residents of Scottsdale, AZ, and Mesa, AZ with reliable eye care services for many years including blepharitis treatment. For more information or to schedule an appointment with our eye doctor, call us today.