Definition
The eyelid can itch due to external risk factors or certain diseases. Depending on the underlying cause, additional symptoms such as redness, swelling and pain may also occur. The treatment of itching is quite different. If external factors are the cause and these are avoided, the symptoms improve quite quickly. If the eyelid is inflamed, however, cortisone ointments and possibly antibiotic/antiviral eye drops are needed.
The causes
External risk factors such as wind or too dry air can irritate the eyelid and cause itching. Smoky or dusty ambient air is also bad for the skin and can irritate especially the sensitive skin of the eyelids. The use of some cosmetics and care products can cause an allergic reaction.
The eyelids swell, itch and are red. Allergies to pollen or dust mites can also irritate the eyelids. Excess sebum production (seborrhea) can clog the glands on the eyelids.
The sebum can no longer drain off and accumulates. This leads to inflammation of the eyelids (blepharitis), which is accompanied by the classic signs of inflammation – redness, swelling and itching. Seborrhea is frequently observed in patients with rosacea or neurodermatitis.
In addition, some bacteria and viruses can be triggers for blepharitis. The pathogens reach the sebaceous gland and infect it. The body’s own defence cells release various messenger substances to fight the pathogens. These messenger substances can, among other things, cause severe itching.
The accompanying symptoms
The treatment depends on the underlying disease. If the itching was caused by external factors, it is recommended to avoid them. Stuffy or smoky room air can be prevented by regular airing.
Safety glasses can be worn against the cold wind. In case of an allergic reaction, the product that caused the itching should not be used anymore. If you do not know exactly which product or substance was the trigger, it is recommended to carry out an allergy test.
If you suffer from a pollen allergy or a house dust allergy, you can take antihistamines. They alleviate the symptoms and can improve the quality of life in severe forms. The treatment of blepharitis, i.e. inflammation of the eyelid, differs depending on the trigger.
In the case of a bacterial infection, the doctor prescribes antibiotic eye drops. If the local therapy is not sufficient, a systemic antibiotic therapy can be ordered. In addition, the doctor may prescribe a mild cortisone ointment to reduce the local inflammatory reaction.
If the inflammation was caused by a viral pathogen, an ointment with antiviral agent can be used. To reduce the inflammatory reaction, a mild cortisone ointment can also be used. Blepharitis caused by excess sebum production can be treated by eyelid hygiene.
For this, the eyelid is warmed by warm compresses or infrared light. Afterwards the excretory duct of the sebaceous gland is massaged. This should loosen the blockage and facilitate the drainage of sebum.
Since blepharitis can be quite painful, it is recommended to take painkillers. If the itching was caused by an allergic reaction, chilled compresses can be applied to the eyelid. This should reduce the itching.
Alternatively, cooled curd cheese or yoghurt can be applied to the compress, placed on the eyelid and left to take effect. Another effective household remedy against itching is Aloa Vera Gel. Due to the cooling and anti-inflammatory properties of the gel, unpleasant symptoms are attenuated.
In case of eyelid inflammation, a heat treatment is recommended. For this purpose, compresses can be heated and placed on the eyelid. After a few minutes, the eyelid can be massaged to stimulate the drainage of the sebaceous glands. Alternatively, you can also use a red light lamp. Afterwards the eyelid should also be massaged.
