Entropion

What Is Entropion?

Entropion is a condition in which your lower eyelid turns inward, rubbing against your eye. It usually is caused by a spasm or weakening of the muscles surrounding the eyelid.

Symptoms

  • Turning in of the eyelids
  • Redness
  • Irritation and pain in the eye
  • Sensitivity to light and wind
  • Excessive tearing

The symptoms described above may not necessarily mean that you have entropion. However, if you experience one or more of these symptoms, contact your ophthalmologist for a complete exam.

Causes

Entropion occurs most commonly as a result of aging. By age, the tendons and muscles that hold your eyelid taut against your eye stretches out and your eyelid starts to turn in. Previous surgeries, burns, trauma, infection, inflammation and birth defects are other causes of entropion. These conditions usually distort the normal curve of the eyelid and cause your eyelid to turn in.

Risk Factors

Age, previous surgeries, burns or trauma and eye infections are the main risk factors.

Tests and Diagnosis

Entropion is diagnosed with an eye examination. During the examination, your doctor will evaluate your eyelid and the surrounding tissue to find the right treatment for you.

Treatment and Drugs

Treatment involves surgery, which restores the eyelid to its normal position, protects the eye, and improves symptoms.

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Reviewed by Hakan Demirci, M.D.