The eyelids and eyelashes are the eyes' main protective barrier. Faced with a threat as innocent as a speck of dust or a piece of lint, or something much more serious like a drop of acid or a sharp object, our reflexes prompt the eyelids to automatically close and protect the eye. In these situations, the eye is fully protected, but what about the eyelid? It can also suffer injuries.

Eyelid injuries can range in seriousness. In addition to accidents such as those mentioned above, the eyelids are also susceptible to various diseases and infections that can have serious consequences for the eye. Therefore, we will explain the most common ones and the associated treatments so that you know how to respond if you ever experience an eyelid injury.

Eyelid lesions

Most common causes of eyelid injuries:

As mentioned earlier, eyelid injuries can be caused by everyday accidents, but there are also infections and diseases that can affect this area of the eye. Here are the most common causes:

  1. Blepharitis: This infection results in inflammation of the eyelid margin, which may appear red and have dry, scaly, or crusted areas that are difficult to remove. Other symptoms often include itching and irritation. Blepharitis typically affects both eyelids simultaneously, either persistently or intermittently.

    Depending on its origin, blepharitis can be:

    • Bacterial: caused by Staphylococcus bacteria, leading to the described lesions, potential loss of eyelashes, conjunctivitis, or even keratitis.
    • Seborrheic: characterized by fewer lesions compared to bacterial blepharitis but may be accompanied by seborrhea of the scalp.
    • Demodex folliculorum: caused by a mite that results in blepharitis and may coexist with the aforementioned types.
    • Palpebral pediculosis: caused by lice or nits present on the edge of the eyelid and eyelashes.

    Treatment for all types of blepharitis involves careful cleaning of the eyelid edge with a pre-moistened cotton swab, aiming to remove as many scales or crusts as possible. In the case of palpebral pediculosis, an ophthalmic vaseline ointment is also used to disinfect the area and eliminate the nits.

  2. Stye: A stye is a bacterial infection of the eyelid, also caused by Staphylococcus bacteria. It occurs when the sebaceous glands become infected, resulting in a red and painful lump either on the inner edge of the eyelid facing inward or on the outer edge facing outward.

    In general, most styes tend to heal with treatment. Several remedies can alleviate discomfort and expedite healing. For example, it is advisable to apply warm compresses several times a day to unblock the gland, reduce swelling, and use antibiotic (Staphylococcus) and anti-inflammatory eye drops or ointments.

  3. Chalazion: Another inflammation of the sebaceous glands, specifically those on the inner edge of the eyelid. However, a chalazion tends to be more persistent than a stye. It is characterized by the appearance of a hard, painless lump on either the upper or lower eyelid. It is generally a chronic condition and not as acute as a stye. Often, there is a history of a previous stye. If a chalazion affects vision or causes significant aesthetic concerns, it may require removal by an ophthalmologist if it does not respond to medical treatment.

    For styes and chalazia, it is advisable to consult with a specialist