Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
Blepharitis is an irritating eye condition that affects millions of people, regardless of age, gender or ethnicity.
Patients with blepharitis often experience redness, itching or swelling along the edge of the eyelids. Additionally, people can sometimes feel that there is a foreign object in their eye or experience dryness or a gritty sensation. If left untreated, this condition can lead to further complications.
“While blepharitis is generally not sight-threatening, it can lead to infections and more severe conditions such as eyelid scarring, chronic pink eye or corneal ulcers,” said Dr. E. Trevor Elmquist, a board-certified ophthalmologist and founder of Elmquist Eye Group in Fort Myers and Cape Coral. “Seeking proper treatment for this common condition is essential in order to relieve discomfort and prevent chronic conditions from developing.”
Blepharitis is generally treated with proper hygiene and warm compresses. Patients should gently wash their eyelids with tear-free baby shampoo and a clean washcloth, followed by a warm-water rinse. Artificial tears, available over the counter, can also help alleviate symptoms of dry eye, and patients may wish to avoid using eye makeup, such as eyeliner, until symptoms subside. In more severe cases, however, additional treatment may be necessary such as antibiotics to fight off infection or steroid eye drops or ointments to reduce inflammation.
To help reduce unpleasant, painful symptoms associated with blepharitis, Elmquist developed an innovative in-office spa therapy treatment for sufferers of blepharitis. The Spa Scrubs treatment is performed by one of the skilled physicians in Elmquist Eye Group’s Fort Myers office, with the goal to provide relief and help prevent eyelid infections.
The Spa Scrubs procedure takes place in a serene room, with low lighting and relaxing background music to make the patient feel at ease. During the Spa Scrubs treatment, the eye doctor carefully expresses the wax glands of the eyelids, which clears out any potential source of infection. Following the procedure, patients will be given a take-home hygiene kit, which includes tools used during the procedure that are not available over the counter.
Blepharitis can be a very unpleasant condition, but the Spa Scrubs treatment can provide patients with relief while also supplying them with the knowledge and tools they need to alleviate their discomfort. Many patients who have undergone Elmquist Eye Group’s Spa Scrubs treatment have experienced significant improvements in their symptoms. The treatment can be repeated as needed on an annual basis.
“Blepharitis is an irritating condition that can be challenging to manage,” Elmquist said. “Fortunately, taking proactive steps for better eyelid hygiene can help reduce flare-ups and offer relief for blepharitis sufferers.”
An eye care professional can help you determine the best course of treatment for your individual needs. For more information on the Spa Scrubs treatment for blepharitis or to schedule an exam, contact Elmquist Eye Group’s team of highly skilled associates.
With more than 25 years of service to the Southwest Florida community, Elmquist Eye Group offers experienced doctors who are dedicated to patient care. Dr. E. Trevor Elmquist, Dr. Kate Wagner, Dr. Sarah Eccles-Brown, Dr. Nina Burt and Dr. Yasaira Rodriguez of Elmquist Eye Group are available to answer your questions. With three U.S. military veterans leading the practice, Elmquist Eye Group’s team stands ready to serve you right here in Southwest Florida. For more information, visit www.Elmquist.com, call 239-936-2020 or schedule an appointment at an Optical Boutique location in Fort Myers or Cape Coral.
Elmquist Eye Group
239-936-2020 | www.elmquist.com
FORT MYERS
7970 Summerlin Lakes Dr.
CAPE CORAL
2336 Surfside Blvd., Suite 121
