Chronic eyelid irritation can be frustrating and persistent. If you wake up with red, itchy, crusty eyelids every morning, you might assume allergies or dry eye are to blame. But for many patients, the real culprit is an overgrowth of microscopic eyelash mites called Demodex. This condition, Demodex blepharitis, often gets missed because it can look like other common eye issues.
At Maslansky Eye Care, our team in Middletown can evaluate your eyelids and lashes to pinpoint what’s driving your symptoms and recommend treatment options that address the cause.
What Are Demodex Eyelash Mites?
Demodex mites are naturally found on human skin, especially in areas with oil glands, including around the eyelashes. Many people have a small amount without any symptoms.
Problems start when mite populations grow beyond normal levels. This can trigger inflammation along the eyelid margins and lash follicles, leading to the irritation associated with Demodex blepharitis.
Because mites are tiny and live near lash follicles and oil glands, they aren’t easy to identify without a detailed eyelid exam under magnification.
What Is Demodex Blepharitis?
Demodex blepharitis is a type of eyelid inflammation caused by excess Demodex mites and their byproducts. The result is chronic irritation that many people write off as dry eye or allergies.
This condition is common and can be persistent if not correctly diagnosed and treated. Because symptoms overlap with other eye conditions, some people spend months or years using symptom-focused treatments with only temporary relief.
Common Signs and Symptoms
Demodex blepharitis symptoms vary, but common signs include:
- Redness or swelling along the eyelid margins
- Itching along the lash line
- Crusty lashes or sticky buildup, especially in the morning
- Gritty or “sandy” sensation
- Burning or stinging
- Symptoms that briefly improve with drops, then return
A key clinical sign associated with Demodex blepharitis is collarettes, which are cylindrical debris wrapped around the base of the eyelashes. These are best identified during an in-office eyelid evaluation.
Why Demodex Blepharitis Is Often Misdiagnosed
Demodex blepharitis commonly gets confused with:
- Allergies
- Dry eye disease
- General blepharitis
- Recurrent conjunctivitis, often called “pink eye”
Over-the-counter drops may soothe symptoms temporarily, but they don’t address mite overgrowth. If eyelid irritation keeps coming back, Demodex should be considered as a potential cause.
How Maslansky Eye Care Diagnoses Demodex Blepharitis
We start with a thorough eyelid and lash evaluation as part of a comprehensive exam focused on the source of your irritation.
Our diagnostic process may include:
- Eyelid and lash exam under magnification
- Checking for collarettes and lid-margin inflammation
- Reviewing your symptoms and how long they’ve lasted
- Discussing what you’ve tried and what did, or didn’t, help
- Building a treatment plan based on your findings
To learn more about the exams and evaluations we offer, visit our eye care services page.
Treatment Options for Demodex Blepharitis
Treating Demodex blepharitis means addressing both the mite overgrowth and the inflammation it causes. Your plan may include:
- Prescription treatment to reduce mite load
- Doctor-guided eyelid hygiene to support long-term control
- Follow-ups to track improvement and reduce flare-ups
Demodex can recur over time, so ongoing lid care and periodic evaluations may be recommended based on your symptoms and exam findings.
What to Expect at Your Eyelid Evaluation
When you schedule an appointment at Maslansky Eye Care in Middletown, you can expect:
- Evaluation of eyelid margins and lash roots
- A clear discussion of symptoms and history
- A targeted plan aimed at reducing irritation and improving comfort
- Guidance on at-home eyelid care
- Follow-up options to help maintain results
Why Choose Maslansky Eye Care in Monmouth & Hudson Counties
Maslansky Eye Care serves patients in Middletown and Kearny, NJ, with comprehensive eye care and advanced diagnostics that help uncover the cause behind chronic irritation.
Meet the team on our eye doctors page.
Schedule Your Eyelid Evaluation
Chronic redness, itching, and crusty lashes deserve more than another round of random drops. If symptoms keep returning, Demodex blepharitis may be the reason.
Use our online scheduling page to make an appointment at Maslansky Eye Care in Middletown or Kearny, NJ.