Why is ectropion potentially sight threatening

Ectropion mainly affects the lower eyelid and can happen in 1 or both eyes. The drooping eyelid can disrupt the drainage of tears, which can make the eyes:.

If ectropion is severe and not treated, it's possible to develop a corneal ulcer a sore on the eye's surface that could affect your vision. But this is rare. Ectropion is different from entropion , which is where the eyelid turns inwards, towards the eye.

They'll be able to diagnose the problem by examining your eye, and can refer you to an eye specialist ophthalmologist for further assessment and treatment, if necessary.

This could be a sign of a more serious problem that requires urgent treatment. Ectropion is usually associated with ageing. It can happen as the tissues and muscles of the eyelids become weaker as you get older.

Rarely, ectropion can be present from birth if the muscles under the eyelid do not develop properly. In a healthy eye, the tear film covers the surface of the eye to protect the eye from foreign particles, maintain moisture and keep the eye healthy. The tears continuously rehydrate the eye as old tears drain out and new tears are produced.

When the eyelid pulls away from the eye, the tears are unable to effectively drain out of the eye. This can cause excessive tearing, while also producing other uncomfortable symptoms. Contact an eye doctor near you if you are experiencing any of the symptoms above or if you notice any changes in your eyelids. Ectropion poses a risk to the cornea and often leads to dry eye and corneal irritation.

If left untreated, vision threatening corneal abrasions and ulcers can occur. Seek emergency care if you have ectropion and you experience any of the following symptoms:. These are signs that your cornea may be at risk. Immediate medical attention is necessary to prevent permanent vision loss.

If you have noticed any changes in the appearance of your eyelids, schedule an appointment with an eye doctor near you for a proper diagnosis and effective treatment plan. In ectropion, the lower lid sags away from the eye.

Because of the sagging lid, your eye can't close completely when you blink, which can cause the eye to be dry and irritated. Ectropion ek-TROH-pee-on is a condition in which your eyelid turns outward. This leaves the inner eyelid surface exposed and prone to irritation. Ectropion is more common in older adults, and it generally affects only the lower eyelid. In severe ectropion, the entire length of the eyelid is turned out.

In less severe ectropion, only one segment of the eyelid sags away from the eye. Artificial tears and lubricating ointments can help relieve symptoms of ectropion. But usually surgery is needed to fully correct the condition. Normally when you blink, your eyelids distribute tears evenly across your eyes, keeping the surfaces of the eyes lubricated. These tears drain into small openings on the inner part of your eyelids puncta.

If you have ectropion, your lower lid pulls away from your eye and tears don't drain properly into the puncta. The resulting signs and symptoms can include:.