At CARE Clinic, the optometrist evaluates your blepharitis (anterior, posterior, or Demodex-related) and discusses treatment options based on your situation: OptiLight IPL, iLux, ZEST, or an at-home care routine.
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These signs are common and may correspond to blepharitis.
At CARE Clinic, the optometrist checks where the irritation is located, whether the Meibomian glands are involved, and what factors may be perpetuating the symptoms.
This guide presents the main forms of blepharitis, the signs that warrant an evaluation, and the treatments that may be discussed based on the examination.
THE CARE EXPERIENCE
The optometrist can distinguish deposits around the eyelashes, the function of the eyelid glands, Demodex, ocular rosacea, or other associated factors.
Options may include a routine eyelid hygiene practice, clinical care, or a prescription when the examination justifies it.
Follow-up at Clinique CARE helps to adjust the routine, identify triggers, and better manage relapses.
Recognizing the signs
One or two occasional symptoms are not alarming. Their persistence beyond two weeks or their frequent return warrants an evaluation by the optometrist.
01
Eyelids difficult to open in the morning, a sticky sensation, sometimes accompanied by fine crusts at the base of the eyelashes.
02
The eyelid margin appears pink, red, or thickened — a sign of chronic inflammation of the eyelid margins.
03
Persistent discomfort that can worsen by the end of the day, especially when tears don't remain stable on the eye.
Urge to rub eyelids harder upon waking, sometimes associated with Demodex.
The eye waters in response to underlying dryness: tears overflow instead of remaining stable.
Transient blur that improves after blinking several times — may suggest unstable tear film.
Eyelashes that fall out, thin out, or change direction in chronic cases.
Discomfort with bright light, in front of screens, or when driving at night.
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Irritated eyelids require examination of the eyelashes, deposits, and glands before discussing treatments.
Dr. Francesca Olinga, optometrist
Identifying the type
The optometrist checks if the irritation primarily affects the eyelash base, the eyelid glands, or multiple areas at once.
Observed indicators
Where is the irritation located?
The optometrist examines the eyelash base, the eyelid glands, and any deposits to inform treatments.
01
Anterior
Signs at the outer edge of the lashes — irritation, deposits, or skin conditions like seborrheic dermatitis.
Signs
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Small crusts or deposits at the base of the lashes
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Reddish or irritated eyelid edge
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Visible flakes around the lashes
02
Posterior
The glands in the eyelids are functioning less effectively: the fine oil layer of the tears is disrupted, causing the eye to become dry and irritated.
Signs
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Eyes feel more tired by the end of the day
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Lacrimation despite a feeling of dryness
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Occasionally blurry vision that varies with blinking
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Increased discomfort in front of screens
03
Demodex
Demodex may be observed at the base of the lashes in some individuals and can contribute to sleeve-like deposits or persistent irritation.
Signs
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Itching often stronger in the morning
•
Tube-like deposits around certain lashes
•
Symptoms that return despite usual care
04
Chronic
Alternating periods of calm and flare-ups triggered by stress, fatigue, contact lenses, or seasonal changes.
Signs
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Flare-ups triggered by fatigue or stress
•
Discomfort when wearing contact lenses
•
Irritation related to makeup or seasonal changes
What can sustain irritation
01
Deposits, redness, or irritation can appear on the eyelid margins.
02
Less functional eyelid glands: tears may remain on the eye for a shorter period.
03
Cosmetics, contact lenses, screens, environment, or rosacea can trigger flare-ups in some people.
Causes and factors
The causes of blepharitis often combine: the eyelid margin, Meibomian glands, skin, daily habits, and the eye surface influence one another.
A plan tailored to the observed signs helps frame treatments and follow-ups.
Risk factors
Click a factor to learn more
Perspective
2–4
Blepharitis may last for a few weeks in acute cases but often becomes chronic: clinical follow-up aims to better manage symptoms and contributing factors that trigger flare-ups.
Duration varies depending on the cause: an episode may improve within days to weeks, while chronic blepharitis requires ongoing maintenance.
If symptoms persist, change, or recur despite your routine, the optometrist may adjust recommendations and check for other factors sustaining inflammation.
An evaluation is recommended if you experience one or more of the following conditions. The sooner the type of blepharitis is identified, the better treatment can be tailored to the observations.
Despite warm compresses and daily eyelid hygiene, the symptoms persist.
Urgent
May indicate a deeper involvement of the eyelash base — warrants an evaluation.
Urgent
Persistent blurry vision, eye pain, or light-sensitive eyes.
Urgent
May suggest a factor like Demodex or another cause requiring clinical investigation.
Attention
Discomfort that gradually worsens with prolonged contact lens wear or the application of eyelash extensions.
Attention
Treatments are discussed based on the affected area, observed signs, your habits, and what has already been tried.
At CARE Clinic, the optometrist examines deposits, eyelid glands, Demodex, rosacea, or dry eye to guide treatments.
Schedule an assessment
An optometrist and founder of the CARE Clinic, Dr. Francesca Olinga understands dry eye because she has experienced it. Experienced in the management of complex cases (neuropathic pain, demodex, chalazions), she uses innovation and attentive listening to guide you toward improved eye comfort.
Optometrist with over 30 years of experience and speaker for eye care professionals. Dr. Nguyen has experience in improving visual quality affected by dry eye. She supports her patients in reconciling their aesthetic goals (makeup, cosmetics) and optimal eye comfort.
An optometrist and member of theOOQ, Dr. Daniel Nguyen splits his practice between eye exams in an optometry clinic and advanced management of dry eye conditions at the CARE Clinic. This dual practice provides him with a comprehensive view of his patients' visual health, from routine screenings to cutting-edge therapeutic protocols. dry eye Biography of Karine Charbonneau
