Eye First Aid

Lower eyelid inflammation: What are the causes?

Fact Checked

Lower eyelid inflammation can cause irritation and discomfort to anyone. If the inflammation causes the eyelid to drive against the eye, the individual can also experience visual changes as well.

A doctor should be consulted if the lower eyelid inflammation does not subside or if other symptoms develop such as fever.

Infection

One form of eye infection specifically blepharitis can trigger lower eyelid inflammation such as close to the eyelashes. The inflammation is due to the debris that accumulates around the eyelashes but this can also develop from a bacterial infection in some circumstances.

Other types of infections such as pink eye or conjunctivitis can cause eyelid inflammation. Viruses, bacteria or fungal sources can trigger the condition. In most cases, conjunctivitis involves inflammation of both eyelids.

Eyelid inflammation
Many individuals can experience swelling of both eyelids but one lid might appear evidently inflamed.

Clogged Meibomian gland

Oil glands are found in the tissues of the eyelids. The oil comprises part of the natural tears of the eye that provide lubrication and nourishment to the eye’s surface. If there is blockage in one of these glands on the lower eyelid, inflammation can occur and the individual might have a large-sized, tender bump below the surface of the eyelid known as a chalazion. Take note that the eye surface can feel uncomfortable and accompanied by excessive tearing.

Oil glands are found in the tissues of the eyelids. The oil comprises part of the natural tears of the eye that provide lubrication and nourishment to the eye’s surface. If there is blockage in one of these glands on the lower eyelid, inflammation can occur and the individual might have a large-sized, tender bump below the surface of the eyelid known as a chalazion. Take note that the eye surface can feel uncomfortable and accompanied by excessive tearing.

Other possible causes of eyelid inflammation

Allergens such as animal dander or pollen can trigger eyelid swelling. Many individuals can experience swelling of both eyelids but one lid might appear evidently inflamed.

Orbital cellulitis is a serious condition that can cause the eyelid to swell. The condition results from an infection of the tissue surrounding and behind the eye. In some cases, there is fever, difficulty moving the eyes and severe pain.

Diagnosis

The doctor will touch the eyelid by pressing certain areas to check the cause for the eyelid inflammation. A specialized microscope is used for the eyes which is called as slit lamp. The doctor will place the chin of the individual on the chin rest while he/she sits on the other side of the microscope. A bright light is shone into the eyes and the slit lamp is moved in front of the eyes. This device allows the doctor to closely assess the eyelids for any indications of infection and other conditions.

Management for eyelid inflammation

The treatment usually depends on the cause of the eyelid inflammation. Certain conditions such as conjunctivitis or eye allergies usually respond well to medicated eye drops.

As for orbital cellulitis, it requires immediate treatment using intravenous antibiotics to manage the infection as well as minimize the inflammation.

When it comes to blepharitis, the doctor will suggest cleaning of the eyelids carefully to clear out the dandruff-like debris. The surface irritation of the eyes can be relieved by applying artificial tears.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

The information posted on this page is for educational purposes only.
If you need medical advice or help with a diagnosis contact a medical professional

  • All firstaidcprottawa.ca content is reviewed by a medical professional and / sourced to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

  • We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable websites, academic research institutions and medical articles.

  • If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please contact us through our contact us page.