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. 

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 Causes of 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.

"In a blepharoplasty, the eyelids heal remarkably quickly and scars are usually quite inconspicuous." American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Inc.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Byron W. Biscoe, MD

Laser Vision Institute of the Virgin Islands

Byron W. Biscoe, MD, has been in practice since 1994. He is a member of a number of distinguished organizations:

  • American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
  • American Academy of Ophthalmology
  • Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care Inc.
  • International Society of Refractive Surgery

Contact us online to ask a question or request a consultation. You can also reach us by phone at (340) 774-3003.

Contact Us Today

Rate, Review & Explore

Social Accounts Sprite