dry eyelids

I have dry, swollen, red, itchy, cracking dry eylids which is never cured.  I've been prescribed cortisoid eye creams but it's only a temporary, overnight help then the condition starts all over again.  This has been a condition for over 7 years.  Is it exceme?  Stress?  Allergies (which I have)...can anything be done?  HELP?

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

Some thoughts:  be tested by allergy doctor, consider dietary changes, changes in soaps or shampoos, have eyelid cultured to rule out resistant staph bacteris, have dermatology evaluation, add flax and fish oil supplement to diet, take proper multivitamin daily but don't overdose, have ophthalmologist look for demodex follicularus mites on your lids, get a second or third opinion. These type of cases can be very difficult to treat - I've dealt with it before and unfortunately sometimes only steroid ointment and sometimes even oral steroids for a while helps for some patients - but I don't know your case in particular.  Good Luck.

MJK MD

[jazziebich]

Thank you so much for your evaluation.  Even though you haven't seen my condition, it's more help than I've ever received .  Your professional opinion gives me something to move forward with.

jazziebich