Ectropion – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Ectropion is a condition where the eyelid turns outward, exposing the inner eyelid surface to irritation. This problem typically affects the lower eyelid and is more common in older adults.
The severity varies, with some cases involving the entire eyelid turning outward, while in milder cases only a portion of the eyelid pulls away from the eye.
Common characteristics:
- Primarily affects lower eyelids
- More prevalent in older populations
- Can be partial or complete eyelid involvement
While artificial tears and lubricating ointments may provide temporary relief, surgical intervention is usually necessary for complete correction of ectropion.
Signs and Trouble Signals
Blinking helps spread tears across the eye. When you have ectropion, your lower eyelid turns outward, creating problems with tear drainage. This causes several noticeable issues.
Watery eyes are common with ectropion. Tears can’t drain properly, so they build up and spill over your eyelids. This constant wetness can be uncomfortable and annoying.
Your eyes might feel very dry despite the watering. This creates a gritty, sandy feeling that can be quite uncomfortable.
Eye irritation often occurs with ectropion. You might notice a burning feeling along with redness in your eyelids and the whites of your eyes.
Light sensitivity can develop as your eyes become more irritated. This happens when tears don’t protect your eye surface properly.
When Medical Help Is Needed
Visit your doctor if you notice constant eye watering, irritation, or a drooping eyelid. These are key warning signs.
Get emergency care if you have ectropion and experience:
- Quickly worsening eye redness
- Increased sensitivity to light
- Vision changes or blurring
These symptoms might indicate corneal exposure or ulcers, which can damage your vision if not treated promptly.
Causes
Ectropion happens when the eyelid turns outward, away from the eye. Several factors can lead to this condition.
Age-related muscle weakness is a common cause. As people get older, the muscles and tendons below the eyes naturally weaken and stretch.
These structures normally keep the eyelid properly positioned against the eye. When they lose strength, the eyelid may begin to droop or turn outward.
Nerve problems affecting the face can also cause ectropion. Conditions like Bell’s palsy or certain tumors can damage facial nerves, leading to muscle paralysis that affects eyelid position.
Skin damage plays a significant role too. Burns, injuries, or previous eyelid surgeries (especially those removing substantial skin) can alter how the eyelid sits against the eye.
Other causes include:
- Growths on the eyelid (both cancerous and non-cancerous)
- Genetic conditions (rarely present at birth)
- Down syndrome (in congenital cases)
Some people are born with ectropion, though this is rare. When babies have this condition, it usually relates to genetic disorders.
Risk Factors
Several factors can raise your chance of getting ectropion:
Age: The muscles around your eyes become weaker as you get older, making this condition more common in older adults.
Eye Surgery History: People who have had operations on their eyelids face a higher risk of developing ectropion later in life.
Facial Damage: Previous skin cancer on the face, burns, or injuries can increase your risk.
These factors can affect how your eyelid functions and potentially cause it to turn outward over time.
Complications
Ectropion can lead to several serious eye problems. When the eyelid turns outward, it leaves the eye’s surface exposed and vulnerable.
Corneal dryness is a common issue. Without proper eyelid coverage, tears don’t spread evenly across the eye. This causes irritation and discomfort.
The exposed cornea is at higher risk for:
- Corneal abrasions (scratches on the eye surface)
- Ulcers (open sores on the cornea)
- Chronic irritation
- Redness and inflammation
- Excessive tearing
These complications can worsen over time if left untreated. Corneal ulcers are particularly concerning as they can lead to vision loss in severe cases.
People with ectropion may also experience:
- Sensitivity to light
- Blurred vision
- Feeling like something is in the eye
- Eye pain
