North Peace Optometry Clinic has a new in-office procedure to treat blepharitis.
Blepharitis is an overgrowth of bacteria that live along the margins of the eyelids. Because we don’t clean this area as part of our regular personal hygiene, the bacteria accumulate and develop biofilm, a sticky film similar to the plaque on your teeth. The bacteria in the biofilm often produce exotoxins that create inflammation of our eyelids. This can lead to decreased tear production and reduces the quality of our tears.
Symptoms of blepharitis include redness, itching, crusting, burning, or watery eyes. Blepharitis can be the cause of dry eye, contact lens intolerance, meibomian gland dysfunction, and demodicosis – a mite that lives in the base of the eyelashes.
Traditional treatment of blepharitis consisted of washing the eyelashes with baby shampoo, however this method has never proven very effective as the biofilm cannot be removed with only scrubbing at home. Also, cleaning with soaps and baby shampoo can sting when it gets into the eyes.
BlephEx is an in-office treatment that safely and effectively removes the biofilm along the eyelids in minutes with minimal discomfort. This will relieve the symptoms of blepharitis and improve one’s tear film. Because the biofilm can return over time, even with at home lid hygiene, repeat treatments with BlephEx are recommended every 3-6 months. Our goal is to make your visit as comfortable and professional as possible. You will receive special, individual attention from one of our trained staff in a quiet, comfortable setting. Imagine it like a spa day for your eyes!