Does your child have red and scaly eyelids with a burning sensation or constant eye scratching? They may have pediatric blepharitis. Don't delay and consult with an ophthalmologist. Learn about its causes, symptoms, treatment, and long-term effects.
What Is Pediatric Blepharitis?
It is called blepharitis when the eyelid oil glands become inflamed. Puffy eyelids and crusting around the eyelashes are the results. The illness may frequently return for years after it has been treated and seemingly gone. The condition often results in eye infections and the loss of eyelashes.
Who Is More Susceptible To Get Blepharitis?
The following factors may put a child at a higher risk for developing blepharitis:
- Scabies, or seborrheic dermatitis
- Inadequate tear production (dry eye)
What Are The Causes Of Blepharitis In Kids?
The following are possible inciting factors for blepharitis:
- Bacteria can cause blepharitis
- Abnormal development of oil-producing glands can cause blepharitis
- Seborrheic dermatitis can be linked to blepharitis, causing redness, irritation, and scaling of the outermost skin layers.
What Are The Symptoms Of Blepharitis In Children?
Each kid's symptom presentation may be slightly different. This list may include:
- Red and scaly eyelid edges.
- Burning sensation and discomfort in the eyes.
- Constant eye scratching in children.
- Discharge from eyelid puncta.
How Is Pediatric Blepharitis Diagnosed?
- Doctor asks about symptoms and medical history. Family medical history may be questioned.
- Physical checkup for the child is performed.
- Tests are usually not necessary to confirm the diagnosis.
How Is Pediatric Blepharitis Treated?
Blepharitis treatment is condition-specific, based on the child's age, symptoms, and overall health. It also depends on how severe the issue is. An eye doctor may be needed to treat severe cases of blepharitis (ophthalmologist or optometrist).
Reducing symptoms is a primary goal of treatment. Possible components of the treatment include:
- Warm, moist compresses should be applied to your child's eyes daily.
- Keep your kid's eyelashes clean daily:
- Use a clean, wet washcloth with a small amount of baby shampoo.
- Gently rub your child's eyelids to remove the crusts.
- Put one fresh washcloth on each of your eyes.
- If you use a washcloth, throw it in the wash after each usage.
- Putting on eye medication that kills bacteria, blepharitis does not recover any faster after applying the ointment. Its main job is to treat secondary infections or stop the first infection from spreading.
- Putting an end to your kid's habit of touching their eyes
- Encourage your kids to wash their hands often.
If your child has both eczema and seborrheic dermatitis, the doctor may recommend the following:
- To eliminate fungal infections, use an antifungal shampoo or topical ointment.
- Brush your baby's hair carefully as you wash their scalp with baby shampoo.
- Apply a corticosteroid cream or lotion.
What Are The Long-Term Effects Of Blepharitis In Kids?
- Blepharitis is a chronic condition with long-term effects.
- Symptoms may disappear in some cases, but can gradually worsen in others.
- Complete resolution of symptoms is rare.
- Severe cases of blepharitis can lead to permanent eyelid deformities or blindness.
Therefore do not avoid it if your child has blepharitis, immediately consult with your ophthalmologist.
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