Human vision is an extremely complex and miraculous gift of nature that reflects our diverse soul and physical condition. At the same time, however, the visual organ is also the very vulnerable structure of the organism, the health of which is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain today. Adverse ecological environments that promote the spread of various allergies, prolonged work at the computer, reading, sewing, knitting and other high-intensity visual activities in low-light conditions, the use of various cosmetic products (often with a high composition of irritating and harmful substances) and a number of other factors precipitate development of diseases of the appendages of the eye – eyelids, eye mucosa or conjunctiva and the lacrimal apparatus, significantly worsening the quality of life. In addition to the negative factors mentioned above, we often overlook and neglect eye hygiene and the protection of such delicate barriers as the eyelids.
Eyelid hygien for preventive vision care
Eyelid hygiene - effective preventive care of eye and visual health
Eyelid structural peculiarities and importance
Eyelids are one of the most important barriers that prevent the various infectious bacteria from entering the eyes and protect from the adverse effects of the environment. There is a series of glands located on the free margins of the eyelids – sebaceous or Meibomian glands – which produce substance – secretion that creates tear film with an oily layer that protects the eyeball from drying out and which has bactericidal properties. Meibomian gland dysfunction is one of the most common causes that contribute to the development of blepharitis or inflammation of eyelid edge.
What indicates that your eyes need eyelid hygiene?
Classic symptoms observed in the eyelid inflammation and indicate the need for eyelid hygiene are:
- redness of the eyelids and eyes,
- burning,
- foreign body sensation in the eyes,
- discharge from the eye,
- crusty debris on eyelashes and in the corners of the eye that are most intense after waking up when they are crusted together preventing normal eye opening,
- hypersensitivity to light and even visual impairment,
- in more severe and prolonged untreated cases there is also thickening of the eyelid and flaking of the skin.
If you notice any of these symptoms, you should not hesitate and consult an ophthalmologist immediately!
How to properly perform eyelid hygiene in case of inflammation?
Proper eyelid hygiene promotes the proper functioning of the Meibomian glands, normalizes metabolism in the skin and ensures the formation of a fully functional tear film. Cleaning the eyelid in the mornings and evenings has been shown to reduce the severity of blepharitis symptoms and, in particular, to prevent occurrence of recrudescence or exacerbations. Also, eyelash hygiene greatly eases the state of patient suffering from dry eye syndrome.
In the event of inflammation, warm compresses may help relieve symptoms. A great alternative is the use of a special heat-cold goggle or silicone mask available at medical facilities and pharmacies. The warming mask-goggles will improve the microcirculation of blood in the skin, relaxing the skin around the eyes, and, when using care products, will promote the absorption of valuable substances in the deeper layers of the dermis. It is especially recommended in cases of blepharitis, dysfunction of the Meibomian glands and eye fatigue. For a warming effect, the mask-goggles are placed in a cloth casing and then in the microwave oven for about 15 seconds (no longer!). For the cold effect, the mask should be placed in a cloth casing and then stored for a few minutes in the freezer or refrigerator. The coolness will refresh and tone the skin around the eyes, and additionally make it firmer. Cold mask is especially recommended if there is swelling or hematoma around eyes, and eyelid injuries. It also promotes recovery after plastic surgery on the eyelids and relieves eye fatigue, for example, after prolonged work at the computer.
Mechanical cleaning of the margins of the eyelids can also be done, removing crusty debris with special wipes or cotton buds and baby shampoo. The cleaning should be light and gentle so as not to injure the delicate margins of the eyelids.
A good remedy for inflammation is also eyelid massage. This is done by gentle eyelid massaging with a finger towards eyelashes.
For effective eyelid treatment that includes all of the above procedures, we also recommend eyelid hygiene with the latest generation equipment “BlephEx”. It is a fast and painless procedure performed by our clinic specialists. During the procedure with the BlephEx equipment, a specialist will separately clean each eyelid with special foam and disposable tips. The method is more effective than simply washing eyelids with baby shampoo and does not need to be done frequently. This procedure is often sufficient to reduce infections and inflammations in the eyes at least a couple of times a year. IT is often sufficiently to make this procedure at least a couple times a year to reduce formation of infections and inflammations in the eyes.
In what cases is eyelid hygiene highly recommended?
Vision is the leading sensation for most people, so regular care of eyes, including eyelid and vision health should be on everyone’s list of preventive health activities!