Not all eye problems are caused by a problem with the eye itself. They may begin with the corner of your upper eyelid or lower eyelid. They are usually not harmful and will go away independently. However, if your eyes hurt or you experience any sudden vision loss, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Here are ten common eyelid problems and injuries:
1. Blepharitis
Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelid. This usually causes itching and a feeling that something is in your eye. It can start in childhood but usually gets worse with age.
If you have blepharitis, you may also see dandruff-like flakes, and the skin around your eyelids may become red and crusty.
If you have this condition, you’ll usually need to see your eye doctor at least once a year. They’ll look at your eyelids and eyelashes with a microscope to see if any eyelashes are broken. They’ll also check for infection and give you a special shampoo to wash your eyelids.
2. Chalazion
Chalazia are small, round bumps that form on your eyelid. They’re caused by blockages in the oil-producing glands of your eyelid. This can cause redness, swelling and pain. They will generally go away independently, but it’s always better to see your eye doctor if you have a chalazion.
Like blepharitis, chalazia are more common in older adults.
3. Dacryocystitis
Dacryocystitis is an infection or inflammation of the tear sac. This is the area of your upper eyelid where your tear duct drains into your nose. If untreated, dacryocystitis can lead to permanent loss of vision.
4. Eyelid Abrasion
An eyelid abrasion is a scratch on your eyelid. It can usually happen when you rub your eyes. Eyelid abrasions are common, and they typically get better on their own. Don’t rub your eyes, though, because this can make it worse. If your eyelid abrasion doesn’t heal quickly, you should see your eye doctor.
5. Blepharospasm
Blepharospasm is a disorder that causes your eyelids to squeeze shut. It can make it hard to open your eyes or keep them open. It’s most common in young children.
6. Eyelid Laceration
An eyelid laceration is a cut or tear on your eyelid and is most common in contact sports. If you have an eyelid laceration, you should go to an emergency room. You’ll need to get stitches to help the laceration heal. Your eye doctor will tell you when to return to remove the stitches.
7. Trichiasis
Trichiasis is an abnormal growth of eyelashes, usually on the upper eyelid. It’s also a common condition in older people.
With trichiasis, the eyelashes grow inward, and they rub against the eye’s surface. This can cause irritation and pain.
8. Eyelash Growths
Eyelash growths are areas where the eyelashes grow into the cornea. These growths may cause irritation, pain and tearing.
The most common eyelash growths are called epiblepharon and ectopic cilia. With epiblepharon, eyelashes grow over the top of your eyelid. With ectopic cilia, eyelashes grow on the inside of your eyelid.
9. Eyelid Margin Ulcer
An eyelid margin ulcer is a small, red or yellow spot on the edge of the eyelid that often leads to irritation and bleeding. This condition is more common in people who have diabetes or poor wound healing.
10. Eyelid Tumours
Eyelid tumours are generally rare. Three of the most common eyelid tumours are callosal gliomas, chalastomas and hemangiomas. They can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Conclusion
Your eyelids protect and help clean your eyes. When something goes wrong with your eyelid, it can be very uncomfortable and may cause pain in your eyes. If you have any eyelid problems, you should see your eye doctor immediately.
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