Certified Paraoptometric (CPO) Practice Exam 2025

Which of the following is a common symptom of blepharitis?

1. Puffy eyelids

2. Redness at the eyelid margin

3. Decreased tear production

4. Floaters in vision

The correct answer is: Redness at the eyelid margin

The common symptom of blepharitis is redness at the eyelid margin. Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids, often caused by bacteria or skin conditions, leading to irritation and swelling. One of the hallmark signs is the noticeable redness along the edges of the eyelids where the eyelashes grow. This inflammation can lead to irritation and discomfort, which patients might experience as a gritty or burning sensation. Puffy eyelids can occur with various conditions, but they are not specific or definitive for blepharitis. Decreased tear production typically relates to dry eye syndrome rather than blepharitis, although blepharitis can contribute to comfort issues associated with dry eyes. Floaters in vision are linked to vitreous changes in the eye and do not have any connection to blepharitis symptoms. Therefore, redness at the eyelid margin is indeed a classic indication of blepharitis.