Eyelid irritation has been associated with eye problems like blepharitis and conjunctivitis. Too much of eye makeup or those wearing contact lenses are also at increased risk of eyelid problems.
Eyelid irritation, although a minor issue can prevent you from watching your favorite drama series on TV. The constant, itchy sensation of the eyelid may also not allow you to concentrate on your work. Persistent eyelid irritation, also referred to as burning eyelids is an indication that something is wrong with the eye and requires urgent medical attention.
Causes
Contacts
Wearing contact lenses is one of the best ways to get rid of spectacles. However, contact lenses have their own drawbacks. It is observed that eyes take time adjusting to contact lenses. So, during the initial days, the eyelids may become sore and irritated, which may eventually vanish without any treatment.
Makeup
A proper eyelid makeup creates a positive impact on the viewer. The eyes look more beautiful that can arrest the attention of the most casual viewer. Applying eye makeup frequently or excessively cannot be tolerated by the delicate tissues of the eyelids. As a result, eyelids becoming irritated is the most common side effect of using too much eye makeup.
Blepharitis
Upper eyelid irritation can also be due to blepharitis, a condition that is typically marked by swollen eyelids. As we all know, the eyelids contain oil glands that do the job of keeping the eyes moist and prevent dryness in the eyes. When these glands stop working properly, oil production increases. This allows bacteria to thrive, eventually causing an infection, known as blepharitis. The infection typically makes the eyelids itchy and swollen. Oily eyelids, crusted eyelashes, flaky skin around eyes, red and watery eyes are the hallmarks of this condition.
Stye
This is a bacterial infection of eyelids caused by invasion of the microbe staphylococcus. It is typically marked by formation of painful lump on the outer surface of the eyelid. The pus-filled lump can form either on the lower or upper eyelid. In this condition the oil glands located in the eyelids, secrete excess oil, which causes bacterial overgrowth and subsequently a pus-filled bump forms on the eyelids.
Corneal Irritation
The cornea is a very thin transparent membrane that acts as an outer coating for the iris and the pupils of the eye. Its main job is to focus the light in the direction of the retina. Exposure to dust, bacteria, and wind are some of the factors that can cause corneal irritation. This eye problem that affects the cornea can also irritate the eyelids.
Conjunctivitis
The transparent membrane found over the inner surface of the eyelids and white part of the eye is conjunctiva. When this clear membrane gets infected or inflamed, the condition is referred to as conjunctivitis. In this condition, the infected eye turns red and itchy. A constant white discharge oozing out of the affected eye accompanied by burning eyelids, are one of the most common symptoms of conjunctivitis.
Episcleritis
It is a known fact that a thin membrane consisting of fibrous elastic tissue lies exactly above the white portion of the eye. This outermost layer covering the white part of the eye is referred to as episclera. The swelling of episclera is known as episcleritis, which causes eye pain and is followed by eyelid irritation.
Caution
A point to note here is that the aforementioned eye problems like blepharitis and conjunctivitis can also occur from excessive use of makeups and contact lenses. In such circumstances, staying away from contact lenses and avoiding or applying the makeup occasionally is the best way to keep this annoying sensation at bay.
Treatment for irritated eyelids depends upon the underlying cause. Eye problems like conjunctivitis may be treated with antibiotics, in case the eye infection is bacterial in nature. On the other hand, blepharitis patients may be advised to apply ointments containing steroids. Home remedies like applying a warm compress may also help to relieve burning eyelid pain.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
