Eyelid Problems
Your eyelids are meant to protect your eyes from dust and bacteria. However, they can also be the source of great discomfort in your life.
Each person experiences eyelid problems differently, from discomfort due to itching, swelling, or twitching, to age-related muscle changes.
Are you experiencing an eyelid problem?
Eyelid Disorders Can Be Annoying AND INTERRUPT YOUR DAILY ROUTINE
Your Eyelid is Swollen, Red, or Itchy
Also known as blepharitis, these symptoms can be a sign of an eye infection, skin problems such as eczema, or allergies.
Your Eyelid will not Stop Twitching
Eyelid twitches can be very annoying and are usually triggered by stress or fatigue. Though some cases can be persistent, most cases resolve on their own.
You Notice a Growth on Your Eyelid
Styes or chalazia are sensitive bumps on your eyelid that usually go away on their own without treatment.
Your Eyelids are Drooping or Sagging
A result of natural aging, nerve injury, or paralysis, drooping eyelids, or ptosis, can make you feel self-conscious as well as block your field of vision and inhibit how you see the world.
Who is at risk of eyelid problems?
The Older You Get, the More Susceptible YOU ARE TO UPPER OR LOWER EYELID CONCERNS
Diabetes, eye injury, stress, sun exposure, and aging can put you at risk of experiencing serious eyelid problems.
How can these concerns lead to eyelid disorders?
The Most Common CausesOF EYELID PROBLEMS
Allergies
Exposure to pollen and dandruff can cause irritation to your eye.
Eye Injury
Nerve damage to the eyelid can cause permanent droopiness.
Aging
The risk of cancer and age-related changes to the laxity and texture of your eyelids increase as you get older. According to the American Society of Clinical Oncology, skin cancer is commonly found on the eyelids. Patients between the ages of 50 and 80 who have fair skin and undergo prolonged exposure to UV radiation from sunlight are more susceptible to eyelid cancer.
What can you do to prevent eyelid problems?
Good Hygiene and Healthy Products CAN HELP YOU REDUCE EYELID PROBLEMS
Practice Good Hygiene
Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes to reduce the risk of introducing bacteria to your eye. Contact lens wearers should only use lenses as directed and dispose of damaged or expired lenses.
Use Hypoallergenic Products
Avoid cosmetic products which can cause allergic reactions and trigger discomfort around your eyes.
Protect Your Eyes from the Sun
The American Cancer Society recommends limiting sun exposure, wearing protective clothing and eyewear, and using sunscreen to reduce your risk of eye cancer.
Should you see a doctor if you are experiencing and eyelid problem?
Eyelid Problems Can Be Diagnosed DURING YOUR ROUTINE EYE EXAM
An eye exam will allow your doctor to rule out cancer and prescribe the appropriate treatment plan for a persistent issue.
During your exam, discuss your concerns with your doctor. Based on your symptoms, he or she can conduct additional diagnostic testing such as a tear lab test to determine whether an infection is causing your eyelid problem.
If your eyelid problem is age-related, your doctor can plan and schedule eyelid surgery.
Can your eyelid condition be treated?
Even if Your Eyelid Problem Is Not an Emergency,TREATMENT IS AVAILABLE
Alleviate Twitching by Changing Your Lifestyle
Get more sleep and reduce your caffeine intake to help with eye twitches. If the problem does not go away, minimally invasive treatments including BOTOX® Cosmetic and surgery can provide long-term relief.
Manage Blepharitis with the Help of a Doctor
Blepharitis can be managed with a good hygiene routine and antibiotics. When blepharitis is present because of an underlying condition, an eye doctor can refer you to a specialist for treatment.
Help Your Stye Heal Faster with At-Home Care
Styes usually go away on their own within one to two weeks, and many patients use a compress to expedite healing. However, a doctor can prescribe antibiotics for a stye that does not heal on its own.
Blepharoplasty Can Correct Drooping Eyelids
Eyelid surgery corrects cosmetic and functional issues caused by sagging eyelids, restoring your field of vision and allowing you to enjoy a rejuvenated appearance.
I'm tired of dealing with persistent eyelid problems...
Schedule an Eye Exam
If your symptoms present themselves suddenly or are accompanied by any degree of vision loss, consult with a doctor right away.
