Blepharitis / Eyelid ScrubEyelid hygiene measures ("lid scrubs") may be used to treat and/or control a number of disease processes that involve the lid margin. The conditions for which lid scrubs may be indicated include, but are not limited to, marginal blepharitis, Demodex blepharitis, contact dermatitis, and control of a recurrent hordeola or chalazia. It is usually recommended that the procedure be done on a nightly basis.
Johnson and Johnson baby shampoo is generally recommended as the cleansing solution as it is considered the least likely to burn or irritate the eyes. Apply 1 or 2 drops of baby shampoo to a clean gauze pad that has been moistened with warm water. Rubbing together two portions of the gauze pads that are moistened with the solution will create a mild lather. Instruct the resident to close the eyes, and using a firm but gentle pressure in a horizontal motion, rub the pad along the lid margins twenty times. A gentle rinsing of the lid area with warm water followed by drying with a clean face towel completes the procedure. |