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Eyelid massage can be prescribed and performed as a cosmetic or medical procedure. The goals and techniques of massage in this case are very different. It is important to understand that the procedure involves a direct impact on the eye itself, so it must be performed by a qualified specialist, subject to strict adherence to the technique. Otherwise, the massage will be at least not effective, and even can cause injuries.
In ophthalmology, eyelid massage is an effective treatment for dysfunction of the meibomian glands. If there is dysfunction, the sebaceous glands produce a small amount of fat, which can cause the eyelid to become inflamed. To increase the effectiveness of the procedure, special drops are used to treat blepharitis.
Benefits of Massage
Patients diagnosed with blepharitis are shown regular use of special medications that help normalize the functions of the sebaceous glands. In most cases, drug therapy is sufficient to achieve a satisfactory therapeutic result. Eyelid massage not only increases the effectiveness of topical medications, but also helps to get rid of the problem with serious pathologies of the meibomian glands.
The mechanical effect on the skin of the eyelids improves blood circulation. Additionally, fatty plugs on the meibomian glands are removed, which prevent secretion. In other words, the complex treatment of blepharitis, which includes both drops and massage, helps to relieve inflammation many times faster.
How long does the positive effect last? It all depends on the causes of inflammation. If we are talking about congenital anomalies of the meibomian glands or chronic eye diseases, then most likely the problem will periodically return. But proper treatment will not allow it to get worse.
Causes of the inflammatory process
Inflammation of the eyelid can be triggered by various factors – a viral infection in the body; inflammatory processes in the oral cavity, nasopharynx or intestines; conjunctivitis; general systemic diseases; getting dirt in the eye; benign formations on the eyelid in the area of the meibomian glands; allergic reaction to cosmetics and more. If we are talking about infectious inflammation, then in the vast majority of cases it is provoked by staphylococcus aureus.
Inflamed eyelids become red, swollen and swollen. If the disease is not treated in a timely manner, it becomes chronic. In this case, the skin in this area is strongly compacted, and the eyelids themselves seem to turn inside out. At this stage of the course of the disease, classical therapy becomes ineffective and surgical intervention is required.
Symptoms of blepharitis
It is quite simple to identify the beginning of the inflammatory process of the century on your own. In this case, a person can seek medical help in a timely manner and prevent the development of complications.
Eyelid inflammation symptoms:
- pain when exposed to light;
- redness and swelling of the eyelid;
- copious discharge of mucus or pus from the eyes. In the morning, there is drying of mucus, the formation of crusts and ulcers;
- severe loss of eyelashes or growth of eyelashes inside the eye;
- change in the shape of the eyelid.
Blepharitis indicates the development of another disease. Therefore, it is important that therapy is aimed not only at eliminating the symptoms, but also at eradicating the problem.
How massage is performed
The main difference between therapeutic eyelid massage and cosmetic massage is the goals pursued. When treating blepharitis, it is important to restore the normal functions of the meibomian glands and remove the stagnant secret.
The procedure is performed by a doctor in a specially equipped room or ophthalmology room. The skin of the massage therapist’s hands is disinfected immediately before the session. During the massage, the patient does not experience pain, but some discomfort may occur. The essence of the procedure is as follows – the edge of the upper and lower eyelids is slightly twisted and rubbed against each other. At the same time, the specialist slightly squeezes the edges of the eyelids with his fingers to increase blood flow in this area.
The duration of one massage is 15 minutes. The effect becomes noticeable after 3-4 sessions. The full course of treatment lasts from 7 to 10 sessions. Without special skills, it is impossible to perform an effective and correct eyelid massage for medicinal purposes.
Proper eye care
Medical treatment and massage will bring the desired effect only if proper care for the eyes and eyelids is followed. During the treatment period, it is contraindicated to wash with cold water, since low temperatures aggravate the process. At the same time, water at a comfortable room temperature helps to eliminate plugs of stagnant secretions.
In the morning and evening, you need to wash your eyes with a decoction of chamomile or saline to remove the microflora that caused inflammation.
Additionally, during this period, decorative cosmetics used in this area should be completely abandoned. If contact lenses are used, it is recommended to replace them with glasses.
Also, hypothermia or a decrease in immunity should not be allowed.