Dry eyes affect over 16 million people in the United States. Fortunately, most only complain of irritated eyes and discomfort. However, others have to deal with dry eye syndrome due to blepharitis, a condition that develops when the bacteria in the eyelids accumulate over time.
 

Because there is no cure for blepharitis, many people must find management strategies. One of the most effective ones available today is BlephEx®, which resolves both blepharitis and the dry eye syndrome it causes.
 

What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a bacterial condition that is one of the most common worldwide. Unlike dry eye syndrome, which often impacts older people, blepharitis can affect anyone of any age and sex. It usually develops when the oil glands at the base of your eyelashes clog up and cause swelling and irritation of the eyes. It is also commonly related to the bacteria Demodex, typically found in the eyelids.
 

Blepharitis usually leads to dry eye syndrome, among other symptoms that can lower the quality of life. But despite being a chronic condition, it does not cause permanent vision damage.
 

Symptoms of Blepharitis

Blepharitis causes symptoms that are easy to notice and allow for early intervention. These include the following:
 

• Greasy or crusty eyelashes
• Inflamed eyelid margins
• Loss of eyelashes or abnormal eyelid growth
• Gritty or burning sensation in the eyes
• Severe discomfort when wearing contact lenses
• Red, itchy, and sore eyelids that may stick together if you close them tightly or in the morning

What is BlephEx?

BlephEx is a novel treatment for blepharitis that an eye doctor usually performs in their office. It is the first treatment effective at eliminating the bacteria that collect on your eyelids and cause the condition. The treatment is gentle and takes only a short time to produce results, with some patients having their dry eye syndrome resolved.
 

How does BlephEx work?

The BlephEx uses a simple handheld piece with a medical-grade microsponge at the end that spins when moved along the eyelid. The sponge is disposable and should be used only once during the treatment that helps exfoliate the eyelid. The device adds more cleaning power and maintains the integrity of the design.
 

The entire session takes twenty to thirty minutes, during which the eye doctor cleans both eyes. They will usually use two different sponges for your eyes to prevent the spread of bacteria from one eyelid to the next. Before the treatment begins, the eye doctor will use numbing eye drops to make it less uncomfortable for the patient.
 

How many Times do you Need the Procedure?

Depending on the severity of your condition, the eye doctor may recommend a session every four or six months. This period is the best for ensuring that the bacteria remain significantly low and do not cause a relapse of the condition.
 

The bacteria usually form a biofilm on your eyelids, which is typically the cause of the condition. Regular BlephEx treatment ensures that this biofilm never forms.
 

For more on BlephEx, the advanced treatment for blepharitis, visit the Dry Eye Specialty Clinic at our office in Watertown, South Dakota. Call or text (605) 882-0808 to book an appointment today.