Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids. With this condition, the skin of the eyelids, and in most cases, the part of the eyelid where the eyelashes grow (lid margins) are affected. Blepharitis typically occurs when a malfunction occurs in tiny oil glands located near the base of the eyelashes resulting in bacterial overgrowth which can lead to inflamed, irritated and itchy eyelids. While blepharitis is often a chronic condition that is difficult to treat and may cause a great deal of discomfort, it doesn’t cause permanent damage to eyesight.

Signs and symptoms of blepharitis include:

• Watery or red eyes
  
  
• A gritty, burning sensation in the eye
  
  
• Itchy eyelids
  
  
• Red, swollen eyelids
  
  
• Flaking of the skin around the eyes
  
  
• Crusted eyelashes upon awakening
  
  
• Sensitivity to light
  
  
• Frothy tears
  
  
• Eyelashes that grow abnormally (misdirected eyelashes)
  
  
• Loss of eyelashes
  
  
• Eyelids that stick together at night while a person is asleep

Blepharitis may be caused by a combination of factors and many times it is associated with other conditions including:

• Seborrheic Dermatitis - Dandruff of the scalp and eyebrows
  
  
• A bacterial infection
  
  
• Malfunctioning oil glands in your eyelid
  
  
• Rosacea - A skin condition characterized by facial redness
  
  
• Allergies or an infestation of lice on the eyelashes (less common)

The regimen outlined below includes some safe, natural steps to preventing & treating belpharitis:

Wash the eyebrows, eyelids and hair with baby shampoo daily, preferably a natural (organic) baby shampoo.

The diet should be well balanced and include fresh vegetables (eaten raw), grains, legumes and fresh fruits.

Avoid touching or rubbing the eyes whenever possible.

Get plenty of sleep and avoid straining the eyes.

The following supplements may also be beneficial:

Resveratrol (take as directed on label) - A powerful anti-oxidant that is very effective against oxidants like nitric oxide, which are thought to play a role in the development of blepharitis.

N-acetylcysteine (NAC) (take as directed on label) - An amino acid that enhances the production of glutathione, which is one of the body's most powerful antioxidant enzymes.

Essential Fatty Acids (take as directed on label) - Aids in reducing inflammation caused by blepharitis.

Vitamin A (25,000 IU daily) - Important in treating all eye disorders.

Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids (6,000 mg daily in divided doses) - Powerful antioxidant that protects the eyes and reduces inflammation.

Zinc (50 mg daily) - Necessary for proper immune function.

Warm Eyebright, Goldenseal or Mullein compresses - Are soothing and aid in reducing inflammation.