Who is at risk of having the Demodex eyelash mite?
There is an increasing incidence of eyelash parasites, such as the Demodex eyelash mite, as people get older. People who have an impaired immunity, such as chronic kidney problems or diabetes, seem to be more at risk. The eyelash mite is transmitted from person to person by skin contact. Males and females are affected similarly. What are the symptoms of the Demodex eyelash mite? The usual sign that you have eyelash parasites would be itching of the eyes. This would, over time, lead to a chronic eyelid infection (called chronic blepharitis or more correctly, chronic eczematous blepharitis). This can cause the eyelashes to fall out. If the infestation persists, there can be corneal irritation which might lead to corneal scarring – this will interfere with normal vision. Does dandruff on the eyelashes mean I have eyelash parasites? It may do, but not all eyelash dandruff is due to the Demodex eyelash mite. If the dandruff is yellowish in color and flaky, you may have an infection with Sta