Blepharitis (inflamed eyelids) while visiting Sweden
Medically reviewed by Dr Toha Soodhun, specialist in family medicine · 15 November 2026
Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid margins. The edges of the eyelids become red, swollen and itchy, the eyes feel gritty and small crusts form in the lashes. It often comes and goes over a long time. The most important treatment is daily lid hygiene: warmth, gentle massage and cleaning. A doctor can assess it by video and prescribe treatment if self-care is not enough.
Self-care, morning and evening
- Hold a warm, damp compress or soft cloth on the closed eyelids until it cools.
- Gently massage the lid margins with the same cloth.
- Clean along the lash line with a cotton bud moistened with lukewarm water.
- A lubricating eye ointment on the lid margins and artificial tears for dry eyes are sold without prescription.
- Avoid eye make-up, smoky or dry air, and reduce contact lens use if it makes it worse.
What a video doctor can do
The doctor can look at your eyelids on camera, check that it is blepharitis rather than an infection or a stye, and prescribe an antibiotic ointment if there are signs of infection or the problems are long-lasting.
See a doctor in person if…
- Irritated eyelids that have not improved after a week of self-care
- A very swollen, red and painful eyelid
Our clinics in Gothenburg, Stockholm and Malmö can usually see you the same day (3,200 SEK, or +700 SEK after a video consultation). If you cannot come in, we can visit you at your hotel or home in central Gothenburg, Stockholm or Malmö — see prices.
Seek emergency care or call 112 if…
- Eye pain, light sensitivity or reduced vision
- Swelling and redness spreading around the eye together with fever
Questions
Will it go away?
Blepharitis often returns. Regular lid hygiene keeps it under control for most people.
Is it contagious?
No, blepharitis itself is not contagious.
See a licensed Swedish doctor by video
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