Blepharitis is inflammation of the margins of the eyelids. Both eyes are usually affected. The condition appears in two forms: anterior (on the top eyelid) and posterior (on the lower eyelid). The most common cause is bacterial infection in the glands of the eyelids and eyelash follicles. Blepharitis can occur in children and adults of any age. Signs and symptoms include:
- a feeling of “something in the eye”
- excessive or frothy tears
- itchiness
- excessive blinking
- photophobia (sensitivity to light)
- crusty or sticky eyelashes, particularly in the morning.