Treatment:

The primary treatment is careful daily cleansing of the lid margins, to remove the skin oils that the bacteria feed on. Baby shampoo or special cleansers may be recommended by your health care provider. Antibiotic ointments may also be helpful in controlling bacteria on the lids.

If seborrheic dermatitis or rosacea are causing the problem, seek treatment for those conditions.

Expectations (prognosis):

The likely outcome is good with treatment. Continued attention to lid cleanliness may be required to prevent repeated problems. Continued treatment will typically make the eyes less red and more comfortable.

Complications:

• Styes
• Chalazia
• Injury to the eye tissue (corneal ulcer) from irritation
• Inflammation of the surface of the eye (conjunctivitis)
• Loss of eyelashes
• Scarring of the eyelids

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if symptoms worsen or do not improve after careful cleansing of the eyelids for several days.