Blepharitis
Blepharitis is the inflammation of the eyelids. There are numerous causes of blepharitis.
Causes of blepharitis:
Clinical signs of blepharitis
Diagnosis of blepharitis
Where possible, determining the underlying cause of blepharitis will result in the most favourable treatment outcomes. In some patients, this may require reducing exposure to environmental allergens, such as pollen or grass, or trialling a hypoallergenic diet. In some cases, a biopsy can help determine the cause. If a cause cannot be found, treatment will be commenced symptomatically.
Treatment of blepharitis
Treatment depends upon the underlying cause. If blepharitis is a result of other ongoing health conditions, these should be concurrently addressed. Treatment options include the following:
Prognosis
The long-term prognosis depends upon the underlying cause. Many dogs will need some form of ongoing medication. Blepharitis is often controlled rather than cured.
Should you have any questions or concerns please contact us on 03 9545 0103.
Blepharitis is the inflammation of the eyelids. There are numerous causes of blepharitis.
Causes of blepharitis:
- Bacterial infections
- Hypersensitivity to normal bacteria in the skin
- Solar irritation
- Allergies to drugs, soaps, shampoo and food
- Insect bites
- Chemical burns
- Parasite infections (mites) or fungal infection
- Immune-mediated diseases
- Nutritional imbalances
- Hormone abnormalities
- Secondary to infection associated with eyelid cancer
Clinical signs of blepharitis
- Red swollen eyelids, often with open sores
- Eyelids encrusted with pus - wet and or dry
- Pruritus (itchiness) resulting in rubbing at the eyes
- Excessive blinking
- Secondary conjunctivitis is very common
Diagnosis of blepharitis
Where possible, determining the underlying cause of blepharitis will result in the most favourable treatment outcomes. In some patients, this may require reducing exposure to environmental allergens, such as pollen or grass, or trialling a hypoallergenic diet. In some cases, a biopsy can help determine the cause. If a cause cannot be found, treatment will be commenced symptomatically.
Treatment of blepharitis
Treatment depends upon the underlying cause. If blepharitis is a result of other ongoing health conditions, these should be concurrently addressed. Treatment options include the following:
- Warm compresses
- Antibiotics
- Systemic anti-inflammatories
- Anti-fungal agents
- Anti-parasitic agents
Prognosis
The long-term prognosis depends upon the underlying cause. Many dogs will need some form of ongoing medication. Blepharitis is often controlled rather than cured.
Should you have any questions or concerns please contact us on 03 9545 0103.
