Eyelid Disorders
Eyelids shield our eyes from bright lights and debris in the air, and when we blink they spread moisture over our eyes’ surface. The following conditions can affect the eyelids, alter their appearance and in some cases, interfere with vision.
Blepharitis
When your eyelids become inflamed, red or itchy, or your eyes are unusually watery or dry, blepharitis may be the culprit. This is often caused by a bacterial infection or by an inflammation of the oil glands in the eyelids.
Entropion
Entropion occurs when the eyelid – usually the lower eyelid – turns inward, causing the eyelashes to brush against the eye. Left untreated, the friction can result in excessive tearing, irritation, infection or ulceration of the cornea, which can result in vision loss. Surgery of the eyelid is often the solution to correct entropion.
Ectropion
Ectropion is the turning of the lower eyelid outward so that it droops. As a result, moisture isn’t distributed evenly and tears fall away from the eyes and run down the face. The eye may become dry, itchy, red and irritated. Eye drops can provide temporary relief, but surgery is often needed to re-place the eyelid in its proper position.
Ptosis (Eyelid Droop)
Ptosis is the drooping of the upper eyelid over the eye. Ptosis may be subtle or so pronounced that the drooping eyelid covers most of the eye and can interfere with vision. This condition can be caused by eyelid muscle weakness, damage to the nerve that controls the muscles of the eyelid, or from eyelid swelling. While surgery is the usual treatment for ptosis, prescription eye drops may target the levator muscle in the eyelid enough to prevent drooping.
Blepharospasm
Blepharospasm is an involuntary twitching of the eyelid. It can be the result of fatigue, stress or another eye condition, but the cause is often unknown. Sometimes the twitching or blinking can interfere with vision and may become more pronounced due to eye strain or in bright light.
Chalazion
A chalazion is a swelling of the oil glands, usually because of a blocked gland. The eyelid may turn red and become inflamed, although there is rarely pain, except when it is large enough to rub against the eye. A chalazion is treated with warm compresses, steroid injections or in some cases, an eye doctor may drain it.
Eyelid Edema
A swelling caused by excessive fluid in the eyelid causes edema. Other symptoms are redness, itching and pain. Eyelid edema is often caused by an allergic reaction or can be a symptom of other conditions, such as trichinosis.
Stye
A stye is an infection of the glands at the base of the eye lashes. It is characterized by redness, inflammation and pain. Styes may resolve on their own and can be treated with warm compresses and topical antibiotics. In persistent cases, an eye doctor may drain the stye.
If you are experiencing any kind of eyelid problem, schedule an eye exam with Opthalmology Doctor Name at Opthalmology Practice Name in LOCATION1 today.
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