Causes, Symptoms and Preventive Solutions of Eyelid Infections

Eyelid infection can be problematic as it is a recurrent issue. It is important to address the concern of eyelid infection at an early stage to prevent complicated conditions in the future. Neglecting it can cause unbearable pain and itchy sensation with numerous symptoms which may be difficult to deal with in later stages. 

Let us check out the causes of eyelid infection and how to prevent it.

What is an eyelid infection?

An eyelid infection occurs when a gland along the lash line becomes clogged or irritated. In most cases, eyelid infections are caused by bacteria. 

Various skin conditions such as eczema, dandruff, and psoriasis can trigger eyelid inflammation. If left untreated, it may cause infection at chronic levels with flare-ups. Eyelid inflammation is also commonly experienced with all types of eyelid infections and typically heals as the infection is treated.

Causes of Eyelid Infection

Eyelid infection occurs due to the following causes- 

●  Bacterial eyelid infection

Poor hygiene, using undated cosmetics, or an untreated case of pink eye can cause complicated conditions leading to bacterial eyelid infection. Pain, itching, and swelling are indicative of bacterial eyelid infections. If neglected, it can turn into a complicated case of periorbital cellulitis. This attacks the soft tissues around the eyes and can infect eyelids.

●  Fungal eyelid infection

Fungal infection can occur on the eyelid when the eyes are exposed to fungal spores. There are higher chances of fungal infection which is mainly caused by dandruff or seborrheic dermatitis. This fungal infection may occur on the scalp and spread to the eyebrows or eyelashes causing eyelid infection.

● Viral eyelid infection

Cold and flu may cause eyelid inflammation and lead to infection. This typically lasts for 1 week and may subside as the infection is eliminated.

● Stye

A stye is an infection in the eyelid that causes pimple-like or painful bumps to develop on the corner or edge of the eyelids. This mainly occurs due to infected pores or blocked hair follicles or clogged oil glands along the eyelashes.

●  Chalazion

A chalazion is the same as the stye except for the location of the clogged pore which occurs in the middle of the eyelid. This may be painful or painless.

Risk Factors of Eyelid Infections

The risk factors for eyelid infections are as follows- 

• Poor eye hygiene
• Non-maintenance of eyelashes in case of eyelash routine
• Using old or expired contact lens
• Using poor-quality of eye makeup
• Dated or shared cosmetics like facial cleansers
• Allergic reaction to chemical-laden cosmetics
• Using comedogenic cosmetic products
• Chronic blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)
• Dry eye syndrome
• Not removing eye makeup properly
• Vitamin Deficiency especially Vitamin A
• Skin conditions like dandruff, and eczema
• Overexposure to UV rays

Symptoms of Eyelid Infection

Eyelid swelling may affect a portion of your eyelid or the entire lid. It can be asymptomatic or symptomatic causing pain and itching. 

The symptoms of eyelid infection are as follows - 

• Dry eyes
• Eye pain
• Discharge from the eye
• Burning and itchiness around the eyes
• Crusty debris along the eyelids
• Increased sensitivity to light causing photophobia
• Increased tear production or watery eyes
• Bulging and swelling of eyes
• Red itchy eyes
• Sore and cracked skin around the eyes
• Pus-filled bumps may occur
• Eyelids sticking together
• Feeling as if something is stuck in your eye
• Vision problems like blurring of vision 

Symptoms may vary depending on the cause of the eyelid infection.

How to prevent eyelid infection?

Here are some of the best tips to prevent eyelid infection 

• Minimize risk of infection by avoiding cold and flu
• Avoid rubbing and touching eyes too frequently
• Do not share your skincare products and makeup products
• Wash your hands and sanitize them regularly
• Do not rub your face and eyes post-washing. Pat dry with a clean towel
• Wash your face properly and avoid splashing water into your eyes which may cause dry eyes
• Wear sunglasses, shades and a hat to protect from sun rays
• If you are using a contact lens, follow safety tips for good hygiene including washing hands before you handle your contact lens.
• Avoid sleeping while wearing contact lens
• Keep your scalp clean to avoid dandruff
• Avoid sleeping with makeup and allow your eyelid follicles to breathe
• Moisturize the area under the eyes with a natural eye cream regularly
• Follow an eyelash routine with natural eyelash oil and serum to keep them healthy
• Limit the use of eye makeup in case of active eyelid infection
• Eliminate all traces to avoid residual makeup to prevent clogging of follicles daily
• Use natural eye makeup and beauty products with botanical extracts and cruelty-free elements. 

Awareness is very important to prevent eyelid infections. Practicing the best hygienic measures can work wonders for healthy beautiful eyes.