IPL and XDEMVY Treatments for Demodex Blepharitis
Ives Eyecare Center is pleased to offer advanced treatments for blepharitis.
If you have been diagnosed with blepharitis, or suspect you may have it, get in touch with us and we’ll provide you with the relief you need.
What is Blepharitis?
Blepharitis (blef-uh-RYE-tis) is a common eyelid inflammation that can develop at any age.
Blepharitis typically occurs when tiny oil glands located near the base of the eyelashes become clogged, leading to swollen, irritated and red eyes. Several diseases and conditions can cause blepharitis, such as dry eyes, which is not treated can cause long term damage to the cornea, the front of the eye.
What is Demodex Blepharitis (DB)?
Demodex Blepharitis (DB) is an eyelid disease caused by an infestation of Demodex mites, a common mite found on humans.
- It’s estimated that almost 25 million people in the US are affected by DB.
- Symptoms of DB can easily be overlooked due to symptom similarities with other eye diseases.
- Common signs and symptoms of DB can include eyelid redness, crusty eye lids (collarettes), irritation, misdirected eyelashes, and inflammation
- When left untreated, DB can leave you more prone to other eye-related diseases
What Are the Symptoms of Blepharitis?
A few typical symptoms include:
- Itchy, sore and red eyelids that stick together
- Crusty or greasy eyelashes
- Burning, gritty sensation in your eyes
- Increased sensitivity to light (photophobia)
- Swollen eyelid margins
- Wearing contact lenses become unbearable
- Abnormal eyelash growth or loss of eyelashes in severe cases
How Does IPL Treat Blepharitis?
Having dry eyes is a very common problem and its causes can range from simple irritation to an eye condition called blepharitis. Both ailments can be extremely uncomfortable and bothersome, but these can easily be treated with IPL (Intense Pulsed Light Therapy)
When properly performed, IPL reduces and alleviates uncomfortable blepharitis symptoms.
By eliminating the root cause of blepharitis, the overall health of the eyelid will be significantly improved and will allow you to produce more tears and enjoy life without the chronic and irritating symptoms associated with blepharitis.
How Many Times is IPL Performed?
The eyelids require a regular hygiene practice to prevent blepharitis and dry eye disease from recurring. It is recommended that IPL be administered monthly over 4 – 6 months in order to keep bacteria to a minimum and to prevent the biofilm from developing again.
What is XDEMVY Treatment?
XDEMVY is medication that was created specifically to treat Demodex blepharitis.
Research published from two combined studies showed:
- 50% of patients had a reduction of blepharitis signs and
- 60% of patients had their Demodex mites completely wiped out
XDEMVY the only FDA-approved treatment that targets and kills the Demodex mites that cause bleparitis.
Designed with your comfort in mind and XDEMVY drops are comfortable to use, requiring only one drop per eye, twice a day, 12 hours apart for 6 weeks. It’s important to use XDEMVY for the full six weeks.
How Soon Will I Notice a Difference?
Depending on the stage and severity of the condition, patients tend to feel a difference right after the treatment. However, if you’ve experienced significant damage to your tear glands due to blepharitis, it may take several weeks before observing any changes in your condition.
Certain people may require multiple treatments before they begin to heal. Nightly hygiene and repeat treatments will treat, cure and prevent a recurrence.
Our practice serves patients from Murrysville, West Newton, Delmont, and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and surrounding communities.