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What Is Entropion?

Entropion occurs when the eyelid turns inward and the eyelashes rub against the eye, causing irritation and discomfort. It usually affects the lower eyelid and is more common in older adults. Age-related muscle weakness, scar tissue from surgery or injury, infections such as trachoma and inflammatory conditions can lead to entropion. Symptoms include the feeling of something in the eye, redness, watery eyes, sensitivity to light and crusting. Without treatment, entropion may damage the cornea and cause infection, so prompt care is important.

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What Is Entropion?

Entropion occurs when the eyelid turns inward and the eyelashes rub against the eye, causing irritation and discomfort. It usually affects the lower eyelid and is more common in older adults. Age-related muscle weakness, scar tissue from surgery or injury, infections such as trachoma and inflammatory conditions can lead to entropion. Symptoms include the feeling of something in the eye, redness, watery eyes, sensitivity to light and crusting. Without treatment, entropion may damage the cornea and cause infection, so prompt care is important.

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What Causes Entropion?

Entropion is most often due to age-related weakening of eyelid muscles and tendons. Injuries, burns or surgeries that produce scar tissue can pull the eyelid inward. Inflammatory conditions and infections such as trachoma or previous lid infections may also cause entropion. Some people are born with excess skin folds that roll the lid inward. Risk factors include older age, previous eye surgeries, chronic conjunctivitis and conditions that cause eyelid inflammation.

Common Symptoms of Entropion

When the eyelid turns inward, lashes rub the cornea and conjunctiva. This causes a sensation that something is in the eye, along with redness, burning and irritation. Watery eyes, mucous discharge and crusting along the eyelid may develop. Light sensitivity, blurred vision and pain can occur if the cornea becomes scratched. Symptoms often worsen when blinking or in windy environments.

When to Seek Medical Help

Any persistent irritation, tearing or redness from an inward-turning eyelid warrants evaluation. See an eye doctor if you notice lashes rubbing the eye or if vision becomes blurry. Prompt treatment prevents corneal damage and infection. Urgent care is needed if you develop severe pain, light sensitivity or vision loss.

Diagnosis and Treatment for Entropion

Eye care providers diagnose entropion with a physical examination of the eyelids and cornea. Treatment may start with lubricating drops or ointments and soft contact lenses to protect the cornea. Skin tape or stitches can temporarily reposition the eyelid. Definitive treatment usually involves surgery to tighten the muscles or reposition the eyelid. Addressing underlying inflammation or infection helps prevent recurrence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is entropion more common in older adults?

Yes. Age-related weakening of eyelid muscles and tissues is the most common cause of entropion, so it occurs more often in older people. Other factors like scarring or infection can cause it at any age.

Can entropion cause vision loss?

Uncorrected entropion can lead to corneal scratches, ulcers and infection. These complications may impair vision. Early evaluation and treatment protect the cornea and prevent vision loss.

How is entropion treated?

Initial care includes lubricating drops and protective contact lenses. Skin tape or temporary sutures can turn the eyelid outward. Definitive treatment typically involves surgery to tighten or reposition the eyelid.

Can entropion be prevented?

You can't always prevent entropion, but protecting your eyes from infections and injuries and treating eyelid inflammation promptly may reduce risk. Regular eye exams can detect changes early.