Condition library

Eyelid and tear-drainage conditions

Conditions affecting the eyelids, eyelid margin, tear drainage and surrounding tissues.

Medical reviewer Mr Mohamed Mohyudin· Last recorded site review

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BlepharitisInflamed eyelid margins causing crusting, grittiness and red rims; daily lid hygiene is the mainstay of control.StyeA painful red lump on the eyelid, usually from a blocked infected lash follicle; warm compresses help most cases settle.ChalazionA usually painless lump in the eyelid from a blocked oil gland; most clear with warm compresses.Droopy eyelid (ptosis)An upper eyelid that droops over the eye; usually age-related and treatable, but a sudden droop needs checking.Entropion (eyelid turning inward)An eyelid that turns inward so the lashes rub the eye; common with age and treatable, often with surgery.Ectropion (eyelid turning outward)A lower eyelid that sags outward, causing watering and dryness; common with age and treatable with surgery.BlepharospasmInvoluntary, forceful eyelid spasms or closure; different from minor twitching and often treated with injections.Eye twitching (eyelid twitch)A common, harmless fluttering of the eyelid, usually linked to tiredness, stress or caffeine.DacryocystitisInfection of the tear sac causing a painful, swollen lump by the nose; needs antibiotics.Blocked tear ductTears cannot drain properly, causing a watery or sticky eye; common in babies and adults.Watering eyesExcessive tearing from blocked ducts, dryness or irritation; common and often treatable once the cause is found.Orbital cellulitisDeep infection around the eye causing painful swelling and often fever; a medical emergency.Squint (strabismus)Eyes that point in different directions; common in children and treatable, and can also affect adults.Amblyopia (lazy eye)Reduced vision in one eye that did not develop normally in childhood; most treatable when caught early.Thyroid eye diseaseEye changes linked to thyroid problems, causing bulging, dryness and double vision; needs specialist care.Black eyeBruising and swelling around the eye after a blow; usually heals in days but needs checking if vision changes.Meibomian gland dysfunctionBlocked or poor-quality eyelid oil glands that drive dry, gritty eyes; often improves with warm compresses and lid hygiene.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most common eyelid problems?

Blepharitis, styes, chalazia, watering from blocked tear ducts, and allergic swelling are among the most common. Regular lid hygiene helps many everyday cases.

When is a swollen eyelid an emergency?

Seek urgent care for painful swelling with fever, double vision, a bulging eye, or swelling after sinus infection or trauma — these can signal orbital infection.

Can thyroid disease affect the eyelids?

Yes. Thyroid eye disease can cause bulging eyes, lid retraction, dryness and double vision. It needs specialist monitoring even when the thyroid blood tests are controlled.

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