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Learning About Diabetes Diagnosis, Treatment and Research

Welcome to my site, my name is Jess Indaja. I was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes after struggling with my weight throughout my teen years and adulthood. My doctor informed me about all of the dangers associated with my diet and exercise habits. I was encouraged to change the way I ate and moved in an effort to reverse my blood sugar problem. I made the changes, but still struggle with controlling my blood sugar. After going through this trying situation, I decided to make a site that may help others with problems associated with type 2 diabetes. I will discuss diagnostic procedures, treatments and medical research concerning this disease. I hope you visit often and learn all you can to control your type 2 diabetes or help others with this condition.

Learning About Diabetes Diagnosis, Treatment and Research

Self-Help Tips For Treating Blepharitis -- Infection Of The Eyelids

by Carla Hudson

Blepharitis, a form of eyelid inflammation, is often caused by a bacterial infection. The condition can take two forms. It can affect either the outside front of the eyelid where the eyelashes grow or the glands within the eyelid that secrete oils that help lubricate the eye. Sometimes, you can suffer both kinds of blepharitis at the same time.

Although the condition is chronic and can be difficult to manage, it doesn't usually cause vision damage. Once your doctor diagnoses the problem and assesses the severity, there are self-care steps you can take to relieve the symptoms.

Clean Eyelids

Since there is no cure, keeping your eyelids clean is an essential treatment for blepharitis. Your eye doctor may instruct you to clean your eyelids once or twice each day following these steps:

  1. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the area around your eyes. The last thing you want is for more bacteria to invade your already irritated eyelids.

  2. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. Whether you are supposed to use a few drops of baby shampoo diluted with warm water, warm water alone, or an over-the-counter cleansing product your doctor recommends, wet a clean washcloth or cotton swab with the solution.

  3. Rub gently as you clean your lashes and along the edges of your upper and lower eyelids. Don't wipe too hard as you could damage the eye's cornea. If your eyelid needs more aggressive cleaning, pull it away from your eye before washing.

  4. After washing, rinse the area with clear, cool water.

  5. Pat the eyelid dry with a clean towel.

  6. Use a second washcloth or cotton swab to clean your other eye, following the same steps.

  7. Wash your hair, scalp and eyebrows with antibacterial shampoo as an added measure to help manage the condition.

Warm Compresses and Eyelid Massage

If clogged meibomian glands -- the tiny glands near the eyelashes -- are the problem, your doctor may suggest applying warm compresses to your eyes and massaging your eyelids as part of your treatment.

  1. Apply a warm compress to your outer eyelids to loosen the crust on your eyelids and eyelashes. Placing a warm compress on your eyes can also decrease itching and burning -- both common symptoms of blepharitis. Use a clean washcloth that you dampen with warm water.

  2. Close your eyes and place the washcloth over them for as long as your doctor tells you to -- usually about five minutes.

  3. After you remove the compress, open your eyes, and gently rub around your outer eyelids. Massaging your upper and lower eyelids for a few seconds after applying a warm compress helps decrease inflammation. Apply only light pressure using your ring finger. Move your fingers in small, circular motions.

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