Home Doctor: Practical Medicine for Every Household
However, I would exchange the spoon for a towel or cloth with hot water, even though the ladies from the rural parts of Venezuela will be disappointed with this replacement.
Blepharitis Blepharitis is a fairly common condition involving infection and inflammation of the eyelids. This occurs because bacteria that normally inhabit the skin can invade any area that presents a small wound. Vigorous scratching, skin irritation, or insect bites become gateways for these microorganisms to contaminate and start the process. This infection is easily diagnosed through inspection of the eyelid. The classic signs of inflammation are red, hardened, and swollen skin. In addition, this skin has the peculiarity of flaking off like dandruff. Blepharitis can be anterior (external) or posterior, just at the edge of the eyelash line and even inside, and is often associated with the processes of seborrheic dermatitis and dandruff.
Treatment The treatment of blepharitis, at least in its early stages, does not include special medications. Proper eyelid hygiene with a moist towel is recommended. An ophthalmologist friend of mine always recommends using baby shampoo that does not irritate the eye mucosa to perform this cleaning, along with warm water, at least twice a day. If flakes are observed, they should be removed; this can be done with a swab, softly and without pressing hard. In this type of infection, the eyelid becomes very sensitive because some glands may be clogged.
Imrankabirhossain, Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0
To help them discharge their contents, gently massage the entire eyelid for five minutes before cleaning. Blepharitis resolves in a few days if proper hygiene measures are taken. Although in many places you will find information about the usefulness of chamomile in the eyes, either for making eye washes or as eye drops, this liquid is not recommended. Chamomile is a natural astringent, meaning that it absorbs moisture. It is excellent for some skin therapies, but that effect on the eye makes it lose its lubrication and dry out, causing other problems. 88
