Ectropion - Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What Is Ectropion?

Ectropion is the condition of the eye wherein the eyelids may turn outwards exposing the white part of the eyes. It may appear as if the lower eyelids are sagging. This condition is more commonly seen in adults. Ectropion occurs more commonly in the lower eyelids than upper eyelids. It most commonly occurs only in one eye but can occur in both eyes as well. In severe cases of ectropion, the entire eyelid may be turned out. As this condition leaves the eye exposed, it may lead to irritation of the eye. It may cause eye dryness, irritation, and excessive tearing. Ectropion could be caused due to several underlying factors such as facial paralysis or an injury. Muscle weakness due to aging can also lead to ectropion. If one experiences symptoms of ectropion, medical attention should be obtained at the earliest as it may lead to corneal injuries.

What Are the Causes of Ectropion?

Weakness of the eye musculature is the primary causative factor of this condition. This condition may also be due to the normal aging process. However, certain conditions can act as a risk factor for the occurrence of ectropion. These risk factors include:

1. Injury: Any injury to the eye can lead to ectropion. An injury could cause damage to the eye musculature or nerves, leading to this condition.

2. Stroke: Ectropion could be caused by a stroke. The incidence of stroke can cause damage to the nerves, leading to the weakening of the muscles. This may lead to the occurrence of ectropion.

3. Any Growth on the Eyelid: Any extra growth on the eyelid can cause ectropion as it can cause outward turning of the eyelid. This growth can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). It could develop all of a sudden like an infection or style. The growth can even be a slow-growing one.

4. Birth Defects: The occurrence of ectropion could also be related to any birth defect that may be associated with nerves or eye musculature. Genetic defects such as down's syndrome may also cause this condition.

5. Facial Paralysis: Facial palsy or bell palsy that occurs due to damage to the facial nerve can also lead to the dropping of eyelids. It may also be associated with a lack of tears.

6. Past History of Eye Surgeries: Any surgeries may lead to damage to the nerves of the eye leading to the weakening of muscles. This may in turn lead to the drooping of the eyelids.

7. Sudden Weight Loss: Dropping of the eyelids may be associated with sudden weight loss. The exact cause of this still needs to be completely understood.

8. Scar Tissue Formation: Ectropion may be associated with scar tissue formation in the eyes as it may cause drooping of the eyelids.

What Are the Symptoms of Ectropion?

Ectropion may affect the eye's ability to distribute tears. When we blink, tears get distributed in our eyes. Tears are very essential to prevent infection and dryness of the eye. The various symptoms of ectropion may include:

1. Watery Eyes (Excessive Tearing): Without appropriate seepage, the tears might pool and continuously stream over the eyelids. Since the eyelids may be sagging, it can cause the tears to overflow.

2. Dryness of the Eyes: Ectropion can make the eyes feel dry, coarse, and sandy. This could be caused due to improper lubrication of the eyes.

3. Irritation: Teary eyes or dryness can disturb the eyes, creating constant irritation and redness in the eyelids and the whites of the eyes.

4. Photophobia: Photophobia refers to the sensitivity to light. Stagnant tears or dry eyes can disturb the outer layer of the cornea, making the eyes delicate to light.

5. Infections: The absence of tears or excessive tearing can cause frequent infections. It may lead to infections such as stye or conjunctivitis.

If someone notices symptoms of ectropion medical consultation should be obtained to prevent complications. Medical attention should be obtained at the earliest if the following symptoms are observed.

1. Sudden pain in the eyes.

2. Any difficulty in vision.

3. The blurring of vision.

4. Other motor weaknesses such as slurring of speech, and drooling of saliva.

What Is the Treatment for Ectropion?

While anticipating treatment, eye lubricants can give alleviation and safeguard the cornea from additional harm. In any case, it is to be noted that improper cleaning of the eyes can irritate the issue. The eye should be wiped from outwards to the nose utilizing an "up-and-in" motion. Skin tape, a glue made explicitly for the skin, might be utilized to lift the lower lip and hold it set up to ease a few side effects. But any of this should be done only on the recommendations of a doctor.

Removal of a Scar Tissue

Assuming that the issue is because of scar tissue, the doctor might suggest scar tissue stretching. This includes steroid infusions and scar tissue rubbing. This method of scar tissue stretching may not be always useful.

Does Ectropion Require a Surgery?

More often than not, medical procedure is essential. Medical procedures can happen during a clinic stay, yet it is generally finished as a short-term methodology with the help of local anesthetics. During the activity, the specialist typically eliminates part of the lower eyelid. As a rule, this medical procedure is very successful and settles the issue. Sometimes a transplant surgery may be required for the treatment of the ectropion. The doctor will take skin from behind the ear or from the upper eyelid and join it to the lower eyelid. One might have to wear an impermanent eye fix after a medical procedure. One may likewise get a steroid treatment and antitoxins to slow the progress of the disease. Over-the-counter painkillers and cold packs can assist with torment and swelling.

A few patients feel help right away, and others track down alleviation in practically no time or half a month. Most patients have no further side effects after treatment.

What Are the Complications Associated With Ectropion?

Ectropion can lead to long-standing irritation of the eyes along with dryness. This can lead to corneal injuries and infections. The various complications of ectropion include:

1. Corneal abrasions and injuries.

2. Recurrent infections such as conjunctivitis.

3. Corneal ulcers.

4. Disturbance to vision.

5. Partial or complete blindness.

Conclusion:

Ectropion is a condition that could be caused due to nerve injury or muscle weakness due to many underlying factors. The complications of this condition can be prevented if timely treatment is provided. If any of the above symptoms are observed then medical attention should be obtained at the earliest to have a speedy recovery. A periodic eye examination can prevent many eye conditions hence ensuring optimal vision.