Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) is common in children but needs proper care. If your bachcha has red, scaly eyelids, crusty eyelashes, or keeps rubbing their eyes, they may have blepharitis. Don't panic - with regular cleaning and proper treatment, it can be managed well. However, since it tends to come back, knowing how to care for it at home is essential.
What is Blepharitis?
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Blepharitis is inflammation of the eyelids, specifically where the eyelashes grow. In simple terms, the small oil glands near the eyelashes become blocked or irritated.
What it looks like:
Red, swollen eyelid edges
Crusty flakes on eyelashes (like dandruff on palkon)
Greasy or oily-looking eyelids
Eyelashes may stick together, especially in morning
Mild to moderate discomfort
Important to know:
It's NOT contagious - your child won't spread it to siblings
It often comes and goes over months or years
It's uncomfortable but rarely causes serious eye damage when treated
Regular eyelid hygiene is the key to control
What Causes Blepharitis in Children?
Common Causes:
Bacterial Infection:
Bacteria naturally present on skin overgrow
Causes irritation and inflammation
Most common cause in children
Oil Gland Dysfunction:
Meibomian glands (tiny oil glands in eyelids) don't work properly
Oil becomes thick and blocks the glands
Common in children with oily skin
Seborrheic Dermatitis:
Skin condition causing dandruff-like flakes
Affects scalp and can spread to eyelids
Often runs in families
Allergies:
Environmental allergies can worsen eyelid inflammation
Dust, pollen, pet dander may trigger flare-ups
Children More at Risk:
Those with dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis
Children with dry eye problems
Kids with skin conditions like eczema
Those who rub their eyes frequently
Symptoms to Watch For
Your child may have blepharitis if you notice:
Red, swollen edges of eyelids (palkon ka kona laal)
Crusty or flaky buildup on eyelashes
Eyelids that are greasy or oily looking
Burning or stinging sensation in eyes
Frequent eye rubbing or scratching (aankh malna)
Eyes feeling gritty or sandy
Sensitivity to light
Watery or teary eyes
Eyelashes falling out (in severe cases)
Eyelids sticking together in the morning
In younger children who can't express symptoms, watch for:
Your child has skin conditions like eczema or seborrheic dermatitis
You're unsure if it's blepharitis or something else
Home Treatment: The 3-Step Routine
Managing blepharitis requires consistent daily care. Think of it like brushing teeth - must be done every day!
Step 1: Warm Compress (Garam Sekai)
How to do it:
Soak a clean washcloth in warm (not hot!) water
Wring out excess water
Close child's eyes and place cloth over eyelids
Hold for 5-10 minutes
Re-warm cloth if it cools down
Do this 2-3 times daily
Why it helps: Heat loosens crusty debris and melts blocked oil in glands
Tip: Make it fun - do it while watching cartoons or singing songs!
Step 2: Eyelid Cleaning (Palkon ki Safai)
How to do it:
Mix a drop of baby shampoo (Johnson's or Himalaya) in warm water
Dip a clean cotton ball or soft cloth in the mixture
Gently rub along the eyelid edges where lashes grow
Use gentle, sideways strokes
Use fresh cotton for each eye
Rinse with clean water
Pat dry gently
How often: 1-2 times daily, after warm compress
Commercial options: Lid wipes or cleansing solutions (ask your doctor)
Step 3: Keep Hands Clean
Teach child not to rub eyes
Wash hands frequently
Keep fingernails short
No sharing towels or pillows during flare-ups
Treatment from Doctor
If home care isn't enough, your doctor may prescribe:
Antibiotic Ointments:
Applied to eyelid edges
Reduces bacterial overgrowth
Common options: Erythromycin, Bacitracin
Antibiotic Drops:
For secondary eye infections
Used for short periods
Steroid Eye Drops:
For severe inflammation
Used briefly under doctor supervision
Oral Antibiotics:
For stubborn cases
Doxycycline or Azithromycin (for older children)
For Related Conditions:
Antifungal shampoo for scalp if seborrheic dermatitis
Eczema treatment if present
Allergy medications if allergies are a trigger
Prevention Tips
Daily Habits:
Continue warm compress and lid cleaning even when symptoms are mild
Wash face morning and night
Change pillowcases frequently
Keep hair clean (especially if dandruff prone)
Avoid:
Rubbing eyes
Touching face with dirty hands
Sharing towels, makeup, or eye products
Heavy eye makeup (for older children/teens)
Expert Insight: Dr. Sumitra recommends: 'Less is more with baby skin. Most rashes heal on their own with minimal intervention.'
FAQs
Q: Will blepharitis go away completely?
A: Blepharitis is often a chronic (long-term) condition that can come and go. With good daily lid hygiene, symptoms can be well-controlled, but it may flare up occasionally, especially during illness or allergy season.
Q: Is it okay to use regular soap to clean my child's eyelids?
A: No, regular soap can irritate eyes. Use diluted baby shampoo or commercial lid cleansers designed for eyes. These are formulated to be gentle if they accidentally get into the eye.
Q: My child won't sit still for warm compress. Any tips?
A: Make it part of a routine - during story time or while watching a favorite show. Let them hold the cloth themselves. Start with shorter times (3-4 minutes) and gradually increase. Praise their cooperation!
Q: Can blepharitis cause permanent eye damage?
A: When treated properly, blepharitis rarely causes permanent problems. However, severe untreated cases can lead to styes, chalazion (eyelid cysts), corneal damage, or loss of eyelashes. That's why consistent treatment is important.
Q: Should my child avoid school?
A: No, blepharitis is not contagious. Your child can attend school normally. Just ensure they don't share personal items like towels.
Q: Is it connected to pink eye (conjunctivitis)?
A: They're different conditions, but blepharitis can sometimes lead to conjunctivitis if bacteria spread. Also, both can occur together. If the white part of the eye is very red, see a doctor.
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This article was reviewed by a pediatric ophthalmologist. Last updated: January 2025
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