Structure of the eyelid and its tasks
The eyelid consists of an upper and lower lid, which are connected to each other. On the inside, the eyelids are lined by a conjunctiva. Furthermore, the eyelashes emerge from the eyelids and protect the eye from foreign bodies and dirt.
Below the upper eyelid lies the lacrimal gland, which serves to moisten the eye and flush out foreign bodies. There are also numerous glands located in this region, which are either sebaceous glands or contribute to the tear fluid. The eyelids protect the eye from light and mechanical stimuli. The eyelid closure also distributes the tear fluid and thus prevents the eye from drying out.
Inflammation of the upper eyelid (Blepharitis)
Inflammations of the upper eyelid can have different causes. A distinction is made between inflammation of the eyelid glands, the eyelid skin and the edge of the eyelid. The doctor must then clarify whether the inflammation originates from the above-mentioned structures or from the tear glands and the tear organ or even from the eye socket.
Inflammation of the eyelid margin can be caused by bacteria that impede the function of the sebaceous glands. This clinical picture is called Blepharitis ulcerosa and there are yellow crusts and ulcers on the edge of the eyelid, as well as on the adjacent lid skin. It can also happen that the patients lose their eyelashes.
A further inflammation of the lid margin is the scaly inflammation of the lid margin (Blepharitis squamosa), which occurs particularly in people who also tend to have scaly skin. This inflammation of the upper eyelid results in scales and light crusts. In addition, the eye is dry and the edge of the eyelid is reddened.
With these clinical pictures, the ophthalmologist will first examine the eye closely and if there is a suspicion that the inflammation was caused by bacteria, a smear is taken and the germs are determined. If it is solely a skin disease, a dermatologist should be consulted. In both cases, consistent cleaning of the eyelid margin with water and absorbent cotton or cleansing tissues is recommended.
If it is a scaly inflammation with dry eyes, eye drops can be used to moisten the eye. In addition, a cream containing cortisone can be used briefly to treat the inflammation. If the inflammation is caused by bacteria, antibiotic agents are used, which are either applied as an ointment or, in severe cases, administered as tablets.
All articles in this series:
