Diseases

Blepharitis / Meibomitis (Eyelid Inflammation) Blepharitis / Meibomitis is a common, long-term inflammation of the eyelid margins. The rims of the eyelids become red, irritated, and sometimes swollen. It can affect people of any age but is more common in young children and adults over 50.It is not contagious — you cannot catch it from someone else. 1. Symptoms of Blepharitis / Meibomitis his condition often comes and goes, with symptoms flaring up at times and improving later.Common symptoms include: Red, sore, or swollen eyelids Burning, stinging, or gritty sensation in the eyes Itching around the eyes or eyelids Crusts or flakes at the base of the eyelashes Eyelids sticking together on waking up Red or watery eyes Increased blinking or sensitivity to light Sometimes, Blepharitis / Meibomitis can lead to dry eyes or small eyelid swellings (chalazions).When symptoms are active, try to avoid contact lenses and eye makeup until the lids settle. 2. Why Does Blepharitis / Meibomitis Happen? Each eyelid has tiny oil glands that keep your eyes comfortable. In Blepharitis / Meibomitis, these glands can become blocked or inflamed, leading to irritation.It can occur more often in people with skin conditions like eczema, acne, or rosacea, or in those prone to allergies such as asthma.Some people may also be sensitive to bacteria that naturally live on the skin. 3. Treatment and Care Blepharitis / Meibomitis is usually chronic (long-term) and tends to recur. There is no complete cure, but with regular care, it can be controlled very well. The mainstay of treatment is daily eyelid hygiene to keep the glands clear and healthy.If dryness is present, lubricating eye drops (artificial tears) can help. For more severe cases, your doctor may prescribe: Antibiotic ointments or drops for the eyelids Oral antibiotics for a few weeks, especially if rosacea is present Steroid eye drops (short term only) if inflammation is significant 4. Daily Eyelid Hygiene Routine Good eyelid care is the most important part of treatment.This should be done twice a day, even when your eyes feel comfortable, to prevent recurrence. Step 1: Warm Compress (3 minutes)Use a clean, warm flannel or a microwavable eye bag. Hold it gently on closed eyelids for about 3 minutes.This softens the oil in the glands. Be careful not to make it too hot. Step 2: Gentle Lid MassageImmediately after the warm compress, gently massage your eyelids to help clear the oil from the glands.For the upper lid: look down and gently press or roll your finger toward the lashes.For the lower lid: look up and roll upward toward the lashes. Step 3: Cleaning the Eyelid MarginsMoisten a cotton bud with clean water or use ready-made eyelid wipes.Gently clean along the lash line to remove flakes, crusts, and excess oil.Pull the lid slightly away from the eye if needed to clean behind the lashes. 5. Possible Complications If the oil glands remain blocked, a chalazion (meibomian cyst) may form — a small, round, painless bump on the eyelid.Regular warm compresses can help it resolve.Occasionally, the cyst can become red and tender due to infection.Rarely, untreated Blepharitis / Meibomitis can affect the cornea (the clear front part of the eye), which requires prompt medical care. Summary Blepharitis / Meibomitis is common and manageable with regular care.It is not contagious.Daily lid hygiene is the key to keeping symptoms under control.See your eye doctor if symptoms persist, worsen, or affect your vision.

Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) 1. What is Conjunctivitis? The conjunctiva is the thin, transparent membrane that covers the white part of your eye and lines the inside of your eyelids.Conjunctivitis simply means inflammation of this membrane, which makes the eyes look red and feel irritated. 2. Types and Causes Conjunctivitis can occur due to: Infection – caused by bacteria or viruses (commonly cold or flu viruses) → Infective Conjunctivitis Allergy – due to reaction to dust, pollen, pet dander or other allergens → Allergic Conjunctivitis 3. Symptoms Depending on the cause, symptoms may vary but can include: Redness and swelling of the white part of the eye and eyelids Itching, burning or gritty sensation Watering or sticky discharge Blurred vision (from discharge or tears) Eyelids stuck together on waking Sensitivity to light Sometimes associated cold, sore throat, or fever (in viral cases) 4. Types of Conjunctivitis Good eyelid care is the most important part of treatment.This should be done twice a day, even when your eyes feel comfortable, to prevent recurrence. Viral ConjunctivitisUsually starts in one eye and spreads to the other.Causes watery, red eyes.May last 2–3 weeks even with treatment.Occasionally, small white spots can appear on the cornea causing temporary glare or blurring.Usually heals on its own with supportive care. Bacterial ConjunctivitisOften produces sticky yellow discharge.Eyelids may be matted or glued on waking.Usually improves faster (within a few days) with antibiotic drops or ointment. Allergic ConjunctivitisTriggered by allergens like dust, grass, or pollen.Causes itchy, watery, red eyes, often in both eyes.May be seasonal (spring/summer) or year-round (dust mite, pets).Not contagious. 5. Preventing Spread (Infective Conjunctivitis) Bacterial and viral types spread easily by: Touching the eyes, then surfaces or other people Sharing towels, pillows, tissues, or eye makeup Sneezing or coughing nearby 6. Prevention Tips: Wash hands frequently Avoid sharing personal items Use separate towels and pillowcases Dispose of tissues immediately after use (Allergic conjunctivitis is not contagious.) 6. Treatment Options For Infective ConjunctivitisMost cases heal naturally in a few days to 2–3 weeks.Antibiotic drops/ointment – helpful only for bacterial infections.Lubricant drops or gel – relieve discomfort but do not shorten duration.Warm compress and lid cleaning – gently remove crusts or discharge.Pain relief – Paracetamol or Ibuprofen can ease irritation or fever.Steroid drops – occasionally prescribed by an ophthalmologist for severe inflammation. For Allergic ConjunctivitisAvoid rubbing your eyes.Use cold compresses to reduce swelling.Lubricant drops for comfort.Anti-allergy (antihistamine/mast-cell stabilizer) eye drops – used daily, often take 1–2 weeks for full effect.Oral antihistamines – can help if symptoms are severe.Steroid eye drops – used only under medical supervision for persistent or severe cases. Contact Lens WearersDo not wear contact lenses during any type of conjunctivitis.Wait until the infection or allergy is completely resolved and lenses have been properly cleaned or replaced. Possible ComplicationsRarely, viral conjunctivitis may cause temporary corneal inflammation, leading to glare or blurred vision.This usually resolves with time and appropriate treatment. When to Seek Medical Advice See your eye specialist if: Symptoms persist beyond 1–2 weeksYou experience pain, light sensitivity, or reduced visionYou have recurrent or severe episodes of allergic conjunctivitis

Chalazion (Eyelid Cyst) 1. What is a Chalazion? A chalazion is a harmless lump or cyst that develops when an oil gland (meibomian gland) in the eyelid becomes blocked.These glands normally produce oil that helps keep the eyes moist. When blocked, the oil builds up, forming a painless swelling in the eyelid. Usually appears as a small, smooth lump inside the upper or lower eyelid May be red or slightly tender in the beginning Often settles on its own within a few weeks Not contagious and does not affect eyesight A common underlying cause is blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid margins). 2. Symptoms Small lump or swelling on the eyelid Mild tenderness or irritation at first (usually settles) Sometimes redness of the surrounding skin Discharge may occur if the cyst drains Vision is typically unaffected 👉 In some cases, the lump may remain for several weeks or months as a painless cyst. 🌿 Causes and Risk Factors Blockage of oil (meibomian) glands in the eyelid Chronic blepharitis Rosacea – a skin condition that can affect the eyelids Occasionally after viral conjunctivitis More common in those with oily skin or recurring eyelid inflammation 3. Treatment at Home Most chalazions heal without medical treatment. You can help it resolve faster with the following: 🌡 Warm Compress *Dip a clean cloth in warm (not hot) water*Hold it gently against your closed eyelid for 2–3 minutes*Repeat 3–4 times a day to soften the blockage 💆 Lid Massage After using the warm compress, gently massage the eyelid:For upper lid → massage downwards toward the lashesFor lower lid → massage upwards toward the lashesThis helps the oil drain naturally 🚫 Do Not Squeeze or pop the lumpUse eye makeup or contact lenses until the lump has healedTouch the eyelid frequentlyIf the chalazion drains spontaneously, keep the area clean with cooled boiled water. 💊 Medications Your doctor may recommend: Antibiotic ointment or drops if there is associated redness or infectionPain relief (Paracetamol/Ibuprofen) for mild discomfortOral antibiotics only if infection spreads to the surrounding skin 🔪 When Surgery is Needed If the chalazion: Persists beyond several weeks despite home treatmentIs large, recurrent, or cosmetically concerningThen a minor surgical procedure may be advised. The Procedure Performed under local anaestheticA small incision is made on the inner surface of the eyelidThe cyst contents are gently drainedAn antibiotic ointment and an eye pad are appliedYou can go home the same day Recovery Mild swelling or bruising is common for a few daysKeep the pad for 4–6 hours, then clean gentlyApply prescribed ointment as directedYou may resume work the next day 🔍 Biopsy (Rarely Needed)If chalazions recur frequently or do not heal as expected, your surgeon may take a small biopsy to rule out other rare eyelid conditions. 👦 Chalazion in ChildrenCommon and usually harmlessMost resolve naturally with warm compressesSurgery is rarely requiredSeek advice if the child’s eye becomes red, swollen, or painful, or if vision becomes blurry 4. ⚖ Chalazion vs. Stye Feature Chalazion Stye Cause Blocked oil gland Bacterial infection at lash root Pain Usually painless Usually painful and tender Appearance Smooth, firm lump Red, pus-filled bump Treatment Warm compress, sometimes drainage Antibiotics, warm compress 5. 🩺 When to Seek Medical Advice Contact your eye specialist if: The lump becomes painful, red, or swollen Vision is blurred or there’s discharge The cyst does not improve after 2–3 weeks The problem keeps coming back

Dry Eye Disease (DED) What is Dry Eye? Dry eye is a common condition in which your eyes do not produce enough tears, or the quality of tears is poor. As a result, the surface of your eyes becomes dry, leading to discomfort, redness, and sometimes blurred vision.Healthy tears are essential for clear vision and eye comfort — they keep the surface of the eye smooth and protect it from dust, infection, and irritation. Common Symptoms Burning, stinging, or gritty sensation (like sand in the eyes) Redness and watering Blurred or fluctuating vision Sensitivity to light Eye fatigue, especially with prolonged screen use or reading Difficulty wearing contact lenses Causes Dry eye can result from one or more of the following:Decreased tear production: due to age, certain medications (antihistamines, antidepressants), autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis or Sjögren’s syndrome).Increased tear evaporation: caused by meibomian gland dysfunction (oil gland blockage), prolonged screen time, air-conditioned or windy environments.Poor tear quality: when the balance of water, oil, and mucus in tears is disturbed.Diagnosis: A detailed eye examination helps determine the type and severity of dry eye. Tests like tear film breakup time, Schirmer’s test, and meibography may be performed to assess tear quantity and gland health.Treatment:Treatment is tailored to the underlying cause and severity: Artificial tears and lubricating eye drops Warm compresses and lid hygiene to improve oil gland function Prescription medications (anti-inflammatory drops) when needed Lifestyle changes: blink regularly during screen use, stay hydrated, use humidifiers, and avoid direct air flow to the eyes. Prognosis: With proper diagnosis and regular care, most patients experience significant relief and improved vision comfort. Early treatment prevents progression and protects long-term eye health.  

Lattice Degeneration What is Lattice Degeneration? Lattice degeneration is a thinning and weakening of the peripheral (outer) retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye.It looks like fine white lines or patches shaped like a lattice (net-like pattern) on retinal examination. It is a common finding, seen in about 6–10% of the general population, especially in people who are nearsighted (myopic). Why Does It Occur? The exact cause is not fully known, but lattice degeneration is thought to occur because of:Stretching of the retina in myopic (short-sighted) eyes.Reduced blood supply in certain areas of the retina. Does It Affect Vision? Usually no.Lattice degeneration by itself does not cause blurring of vision or pain. Most patients are unaware of it until found during a routine eye check-up or dilated retinal examination. Why Is It Important? In some people, the thinned retina can develop small tears or holes, which may allow fluid to enter underneath and lead to retinal detachment — a serious sight-threatening condition. Warning Symptoms to Watch For Seek urgent eye consultation if you notice: Flashes of light (especially in dim light) New black floaters or cobweb-like spots A curtain-like shadow or loss of part of vision These may indicate a retinal tear or detachment. Treatment No treatment is needed for most cases — only regular monitoring. If small holes or tears are detected, you will need prophylactic laser treatment to seal them and prevent retinal detachment.Patient should ideally do a yearly retinal check-up. Prognosis With regular monitoring and prompt treatment of any tears, the long-term outlook is excellent. Most people with lattice degeneration maintain normal vision throughout life. Remember Regular eye examinations help detect retinal changes early — timely treatment can prevent vision loss.