Television personality Bradley Walsh has openly discussed a persistent health issue that has led to noticeable changes in his appearance over the years, directly addressing viewer comments about his looks.
Bradley Walsh's Health Revelation
The beloved TV star, known for his decades-long career on screen, has been candid about his struggles with a specific eye condition that significantly impacts his daily life. During a 2021 appearance on This Morning, Walsh revealed he suffers from "seriously bad blepharitis", a disorder affecting the eyelids.
He explained that without daily medication, he "really struggles" with the condition and anticipates needing eye surgery in the future to manage it effectively. Walsh emphasised that many people comment on his changing appearance without understanding the underlying health issue, noting that when he takes his prescribed medication, he feels fine.
Understanding Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a common condition characterised by swollen, itchy, and inflamed eyelids, which can alter a person's facial appearance by causing redness and irritation. According to the NHS, while it is typically not serious, it requires consistent management through cleaning routines and sometimes medication.
The condition is not contagious and is usually caused by one of three factors:
- A type of bacteria naturally present on the skin
- Skin conditions such as seborrhoeic dermatitis
- Insufficient oil production from the eyelids' glands
If left untreated, blepharitis can lead to complications including chronic dry eye, blocked oil glands, eyelash loss, conjunctivitis, and even corneal damage that may threaten vision. In severe instances, individuals might wake up with their eyelids 'sealed shut' due to accumulated debris overnight.
Symptoms and Daily Challenges
Symptoms of blepharitis can fluctuate, with common signs including sore eyelids, itchy eyes, a gritty sensation, and flakes or crusts around the eyelash roots. A particularly distressing symptom is the morning experience of eyelids sticking together, caused by the buildup of oil, debris, or bacteria along the eyelid margins during sleep.
To prevent this buildup, the NHS advises those with blepharitis to clean their eyelids twice daily, even when symptoms subside, to maintain eye health and comfort.
Treatment and Management Options
Effective management often involves a daily cleaning routine: soaking a flannel in warm water and applying it to closed eyelids for several minutes, followed by gentle massage and careful wiping of the eyelid edges with cotton wool or a bud to remove debris.
Pharmacists can recommend specialised eye pads, wipes, or eyedrops to aid in cleanliness. If symptoms persist, a GP may prescribe antibiotic creams or ointments and address underlying causes, such as treating a cyst if present.
The NHS urges immediate medical attention for eye pain, sudden vision changes, or red eyes, as these could indicate a more serious eye problem, advising contact with a GP or NHS 111 for urgent assistance.
Bradley Walsh has also shared that he manages high cholesterol alongside this condition, highlighting the importance of overall health awareness. His openness about blepharitis sheds light on a common yet often misunderstood issue, encouraging others to seek proper care and understanding.
