Symptoms and diagnosis* Itching, burning and crusts on the edges of the eyelid, a feeling that there is something “strange” in the eye, irritation inside the eyelid, blurred vision, eye pain, unexplained tearing in the eyes. You may notice that you have eyelash mites due to symptoms such as dry eyes, blurred vision, sticky or crusty eyelashes, and red, swollen eyelids. You may also feel itchy, feel a stinging sensation, and have abnormal eyelash growth. It is believed that everyone will have them eventually.
Although babies are not born with mites, they easily get them through direct contact with their mother and other family members. Eyelash mite infestations usually affect the eyelid. Eyelash mites occur in healthy people, so the infestation can go unnoticed unless they multiply rapidly. To use tea tree oil for eyelash mites, place a small amount of the oil solution on a cotton swab and apply it to the eyelashes, eyelids, and the base of the eyelash follicles.
However, some people, especially those with skin disorders that cause peeling and dead skin, tend to have more eyelash mites. Because eyelash mites are microscopic, they can't be seen, but the symptoms they cause can be identified. Eyelash mites can worsen pre-existing conditions, such as rosacea eruptions, acne, and patches of dermatitis. Although you can't get rid of eyelash mites, there are several effective methods to treat an infestation and eliminate annoying or unpleasant symptoms.
Many cases of eyelash mites are recurrent, so it's important to maintain adequate and ongoing eye hygiene to prevent future outbreaks. Demodex mites feed on dead skin, so people who are prone to dandruff or skin diseases, such as rosacea, are at greater risk of developing eyelash mite infestations. According to a study, a Demodex mite infestation on eyelashes and sebaceous glands in the eyelids can cause madarosis or loss of eyelashes. In severe cases of eyelash mite infestation or when there is a bacterial infection, medical intervention may be necessary.
Eye symptoms caused by eyelash mites can be very uncomfortable and interfere with the ability to see clearly. While eyelash mites are generally not contagious, serious infestations can, so it's important to be careful if you or someone close to you has eyelash mites. When a bacterial infection accompanies an infestation or the eyelash mite infestation is severe, antibiotic eyelid creams or steroid eye drops may be necessary. Because eyelash mite infestations are usually asymptomatic, many people only seek treatment when the mites multiply in greater numbers.
In adolescence, eyelash mites begin to increase due to the high production of fat-producing glands. Eyelash mites are usually not dangerous and, in fact, can perform useful functions for human skin.
