Droopy Eyelid
A droopy eyelid is a condition where the eyelid does not stay in its normal place and droops down past the eye. It can affect one or both eyes. Some people suffer from the condition and do not notice it. Other people require surgery to correct it because it blocks the light of vision. It can be treated.
Risk Factors for Droopy Eyelid
Some people are more at risk of developing a droopy eyelid than others, but it can affect people of all ages and genders. It is more common in adults, especially the elderly. Anyone with a skin elasticity disorder is likely to develop the condition. Babies are often born with the disorder.
Causes of Droopy Eyelid
Droopy eyelids can be caused by numerous problems. Some people are born with it, while others acquire it later on in life. People who are born with the condition may find that it gets worse with age. Some common causes of droopy eyelids include:
- Trauma
- Infection
- Medical conditions
- Medication side effects
Symptoms of Droopy Eyelid
Droopy eyelids are symptom themselves and can be symptoms of another condition. When doctors observe the symptoms of a droopy eyelid, they will consider the cause of the symptoms and determine if there is an underlying problem. Some people may experience other symptoms with a droopy eyelid including:
- Pain
- Redness
- Swelling
- Itchiness
- Dry eyes
- Watery eyes
- Inability to see clearly
- Cloudy vision
- Headaches
Diagnosis of Droopy Eyelid
Droopy eyelids are diagnosed with a physical exam. A physician or an eye doctor can diagnose the condition. Doctors will also determine the cause of the droopiness. They may ask the patient questions about their medical history and how long they have been suffering from the condition. Other tests may be necessary to confirm the cause of the droopy eyelid. Some common diagnostic tests include:
- X-ray
- Eye exam
- Slit lamp exam
- Tensilon test
Treatment of Droopy Eyelid
The causes of the droopy eyelid must be treated before the physical condition can improve. Doctors may not offer any treatment if the condition is not serious. Babies that are born with the condition may not receive treatment until they are older, so doctors can give the condition a chance to improve on its own. Some other treatments for the condition include:
- Surgery
- Glasses
- Ptosis crutch
- Topical creams
- Oral medications
Prognosis of Droopy Eyelid
Droopy eyelids are not usually dangerous or a health risk. They are more of a cosmetic concern. If the eyelid droops far enough to block a patient’s vision, it can become a more serious problem. Most people have success with treatments. In rare cases, a droopy eyelid can be a symptom of something more serious. They should not be ignored and should always be checked by a physician.
Complications of Droopy Eyelid
Most people do not have any complications from a droopy eyelid. If left untreated, it can become worse and interfere with daily life and even lead to vision problems. Patients who require surgery to treat the condition may have complications like bleeding or scarring during recovery.
