On call

Eyelid inflammation

Q. I don't have allergies, but my eyes often burn and itch. My vision is fine, but my eyes are sometimes bloodshot, and I come down with two or three sties a year. I don't want to bother my doctor with such a minor problem, but I wonder if you can help.

A. It can be hazardous to hazard a diagnosis without seeing the patient. That said, your symptoms suggest your problem is blepharitis. But don't panic — the name is worse than the illness. Bleph comes from the Greek word for eyelid, and itis simply indicates inflammation.