Ectropion is a medical condition where the lower eyelid turns outward, leaving the inner surface of the eyelid exposed and prone to irritation. It is one of the notable characteristics of newborns exhibiting congenital Harlequin-type ichthyosis, but it can also happen as a result of any weakening of the lower eyelid tissue.
When ectropion is severe, the entire length of the lower eyelid turns out; when it is less severe, only a portion of the eyelid sags away from the eye. Ectropion is more common in older adults and typically only affects the lower eyelid.
Symptoms of Ectropion
Normally, when we blink, the inner part of our eyelids (puncta) allow tears to drain into tiny openings, which keep the surfaces of our eyes lubricated.
Ectropion occurs when the lower lid pulls away from the eye, preventing tears from properly draining into the puncta.
The following list of symptoms and signs could result:
- Watery eyes (excessive tearing)
- Excessive dryness.
- Irritation.
- Sensitivity to light.
- Dry, painful eyes
- Epiphora, or excessive tear production,
- Eyelid turns outward
- Long-term (chronic) conjunctivitis
- Keratitis
- the white of the eye and the lid are both red.
- eyes that are becoming more and more red
- Decreasing vision
Causes of Ectropion
- Muscle weakness.
- Facial paralysis.
- Scars or previous surgeries.
- Eyelid growths.
- Genetic disorders.
- Congenital
- Aging
- Scarring
- Mechanical
- Allergic
- Facial nerve palsy
- Anti-cancer treatments
Risk factors of Ectropion
You’re more likely to get ectropion if you have the following factors:
- Age.Aging-related muscle tissue deterioration is the most frequent cause of ectropion.
- Previous eye surgeries.A higher risk of ectropion later on exists in those who have undergone eyelid surgery.
- Previous cancer, burns or trauma.A person is more likely to develop ectropion if they have had facial burns, skin cancer spots, or trauma.
Complications of Ectropion
Because of the irritation and exposure caused by ectropion, our cornea is more vulnerable to drying out, which can lead to corneal abrasions and ulcers that could endanger our vision.
- Inflammation and dryness of the cornea may cause:
- Corneal abrasions
- Corneal ulcers
- Eye infections
- Ulcers on the cornea can impair vision.
Diagnosis of Ectropion
Our doctor may pull on our eyelids during the exam or ask us to forcefully close our eyes in order to assess each eyelid’s muscle tone and tightness. Ectropion is typically diagnosed with a routine eye exam and physical.
The surrounding tissue will also be examined by our doctor to determine whether the ectropion is brought on by a scar, tumor, prior surgery, or radiation.
Homeopathic Treatment of Ectropion
Homeopathic treatment for watery eyes aims to treat the cause causing the problem to ensure complete recovery and is dependent on the totality of symptoms like burning, itching, swelling, sensitivity to light, pain, and redness in the eyes.
Euphrasia :Very helpful medication for watery eyes when they are burning, itching, and feeling pressure in the eyes all day. Also beneficial for watery eyes brought on by conjunctivitis.
Natrum Mur :Recommend for burning and smarting sensation in the eyes. There is cloudiness and a sandy feeling in these eyes. Effective for watery eyes that are caused by stricture of the lachrymal duct. There is a feeling of wetness all the time and tears may even roll over onto the face.
Silicea :For newborns with watery eyes brought on by lachrymal duct swelling or stricture, this medication is very helpful.
Pulsatilla :Very helpful medication for watery eyes brought on by catarrhal conjunctivitis. Tears flow freely, and there is burning and itching in the eyes, as well as a pressure and sand-like feeling.
Allium Cepa :Useful in cases of allergies where the nasal discharge is extremely acrid, burning, and is accompanied by a profuse and bland flow of tears. Useful for watery eyes when the flow of tears is bland or non-irritating.
Apis Mel :Useful for hot lachrymation with sudden piercing pains. Useful for photophobia. Very helpful for swollen, red, edematous, everted, inflamed lids with burn and sting.
Argentum Nitricum :Useful for photophobia in warm environments, useful for purulent ophthalmia, useful for swollen inner canthi with spots before vision, useful for aching, tired eyes that are better treated by closing or pressing on them, and very effective at reviving weak ciliary muscles.
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