Tag Archives: eye doctor

Blepharitis

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Eye doctor in QueensBlepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid- typically involving the part of the lid where our lashes grow.   It is a disorder that can affect anyone of any age; however, people with oily skin, dandruff or rosacea are more prone to getting infections.

There are several possible factors that can contribute to blepharitis, including:

  • A buildup of bacteria
  • Dandruff of the scalp and eyebrows
  • Clogged or malfunctioning oil glands of the eyelids
  • Eyelash mites or lice
  • Allergic reactions to eye makeup, eye medications or contact lens solutions.
  • Rosacea

Blepharitis can result in the following complications:

  • Excess tearing or dry eyes
  • Burning or stinging eyes
  • Crusty debris at the base of the eyelid
  • Loss of lashes
  • A sty
  • Chronic pink eye
  • A chalazion ( a blockage of an oil gland at the margin of the eyelid)
  • Blurry vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Red and swollen eyes or eyelids
  • Scarring of the eyelids

Unfortunately, there is no cure for blepharitis but there are a number of treatments used to control symptoms.  Treatments an eye doctor may prescribe or recommend include:

  • Warm compresses
  • Eyelid scrubs
  • Medications such as antibiotics to fight infection
  • Medications such as steroid eye drops or ointments to control inflammation
  • Medications to treat underlying conditions such as dandruff or rosacea
  • Procedures to remove mites or open clogged glands

Practicing good eyelid hygiene tips can help to reduce the risk of inflammation.   Doctors recommend practicing daily self-care regimens which can involve applying a warm compress to break down the buildup of debris, cleaning your eyelids daily with a solution such as baby wash diluted with water or using dandruff- controlling shampoos.

If you are experiencing symptoms of blepharitis and would like to schedule an appointment with an eye doctor at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center, please call  718- 206- 5900.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Be Careful With This Scary Halloween Costume Accessory

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With Halloween approaching, many are getting into the spirit by looking for costumes that frighten. Whether choosing  a scary witch, chilling vampire or a creepy zombie costume, there is one spooky accessory that is considered dangerous and should not be used.

Decorative, or costume contact lenses are very popular this time of year because of their ability to change the color or overall appearance of your eyes. Many people use them to create a “frightening look”, but this attempt to terrify can come at a cost to your vision.

It is important to know that contact lenses are medical devices intended to correct your vision and are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). They should not be worn unless prescribed by an eye doctor. Retailers that advertise them as cosmetics or sell them over-the-counter, without a prescription are breaking the law.  The issue with these “fashion” lenses is that they are advertised as one size fits all, but this is not accurate. Before wearing contact lenses, your doctor should measure each eye to properly fit the lenses and evaluate how your eye responds to them. A poor fit can cause serious eye damage, including:

  • Scratches on the cornea (the clear dome of tissue over the iris—the part of the eye that gives you your eye color)
  • Sorneal infection (an ulcer or sore on the cornea)
  • Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
  • Decreased vision
  • Blindness

According to an article published by the FDA, “The problem isn’t with the decorative contacts themselves. It’s the way people use them improperly—without a valid prescription, without the involvement of a qualified eye care professional, or without appropriate follow-up care.” Many of the issues arise due to a lack of care instructions on decorative contact lens packaging.

The FDA warns to never buy these types of contact lenses from street vendors, beauty supply stores, novelty or Halloween stores, or an internet site that does not require a prescription.

If you are determined to get decorative contact lenses to complete your scary look this Halloween, speak to your eye doctor and get a prescription that includes the brand name, lens measurements, and an expiration date. Then go to a seller that requires you have a prescription. Failure to do so, and the biggest scare could be the damage you do to your eyesight.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.