Blepharitis in Children: Care Instructions

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Eyeball and optic nerve

Overview

Blepharitis is an inflammation or infection of the eyelids. It causes dry, scaly crusts on the eyelids. It can also cause your child's eyes to itch, burn, and look red. This problem is more common in children who have dandruff, skin allergies, or eczema.

Home treatment can help keep your child's eyes comfortable. Your doctor may also prescribe an ointment to put on your child's eyelids.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

  • Wash your child's eyelids and eyebrows daily with baby shampoo. To wash your child's eyelids:
    • Place a very warm washcloth over your child's eyes for about a minute. This will help soften and loosen the crusts on your child's eyelashes.
    • Put a few drops of baby shampoo on a warm washcloth.
    • Gently wipe your child's eyelids. This helps remove any crust. It also cleans the eyelids.
    • Rinse well with water.
  • Be safe with medicines. If your doctor prescribed medicine, use it exactly as directed. Call your doctor if you think your child is having a problem with the medicine.

When should you call for help?

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

  • Your child has signs of an eye infection, such as:
    • Pus or thick discharge coming from the eye.
    • Redness or swelling around the eye.
    • A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

  • Your child has vision changes.
  • Your child does not get better as expected.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter U196 in the search box to learn more about "Blepharitis in Children: Care Instructions".

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.