​Entropion

Entropion is a disorder of the eye lids in which the eye lids turn inwards. As a result, the eye lashes rub against the eyes, causing irritation, redness and corneal abrasions. Entropion is a more common disorder amongst the elderly and usually affects the lower eye lid. It may occur in one or both eyes.

Entropion progresses slowly, with symptoms barely noticeable at first. However, as it advances, eye lid movement may become difficult, and may lead to scarring of the eye ball, eye infections, and damage to the cornea, such as corneal breakdown and ulcers. 

Causes of entropion include age-related weakening of the muscles, scars or previous surgeries or recurrent eye infections. In rare cases, a child may be born with this disorder (congenital entropion).

As entropion is a slowly-progressing disorder, symptoms may not be noticeable at first. At first, only mild irritation in your eyes may be experienced. Over time, the following symptoms may develop:

  • Redness in your eyes.

  • Eye irritation.

  • Sensitivity to light.

  • Mucus discharge from the affected eye.

  • Teary and watery eyes.

  • Corneal infections.

  • Scarring.

  • Your vision may be affected.

  • ​Feeling that there is grit in your eyes.​

A constant feeling that there is something in your eyes is a cause for concern. If you feel that your eye lid is folding, you must seek immediate medical attention as permanent damage can occur if entropion is left untreated for long. Pain in the eyes, irritation and redness that very long are also signs that should not be ignored as they may indicate the onset of vision impairment.​​​
Your time with your doctor may be limited, so make sure to prepare for your visit beforehand. Here are some tips to help get you started.​

It is easy to identify entropion by visually looking at your eyes. Your eye lid will appear visibly turned inwards. Your doctor will also ask you about your symptoms, which will help identify possible causes of your disorder. 

A snap test helps check for the presence of entropion. The doctor pinches the eye lid gently to see how rapidly it falls back in place. You may also be asked to blink or squeeze your eyes close to assess the movement of the eye lids.

The team of expert ophthalmologists (eye specialists) at The Aga Khan University Hospital, the only internationally accredited hospital of Pakistan, is specially trained in the diagnosis and treatment of eye disorders such as entropion. Discuss your symptoms in detail to help your doctor make an accurate diagnosis of your condition.

If the cause of entropion is temporary, such as an eye infection, your doctor will offer a temporary treatment to manage your eye lid, such as taping them to prevent them from folding in. Sometimes, Botox injections in the eye lid may also help provide relief. Stitches that help keep the eye lid outward also offer a temporary solution.

In severe cases, surgery may also be recommended. Surgery aims to tighten the muscles in the eye lids, stopping them from turning inwards. If scar tissue is the cause of entropion, the doctor may use skin grafting to help correct the entropion. Make sure you discuss the risks and complications of surgery in detail with your eye doctor before consenting to any procedure.

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers various support services to help with managing or recovering from the disease or condition. These include but are not limited to nutrition, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, specialized clinics and some patient support groups. Your doctor or nurse will advise you accordingly.

The Aga Khan University Hospital offers financial assistance to those who are in need and fulfil the eligibility criteria. For further information, you can contact the Patient Welfare Department. You can find the contact number of the Patient Welfare Department in the ‘Important Numbers’ section on the website homepage.

The financial counselling staff is available during office hours, at the main PBSD (Patient Business Services Department), to answer your financial queries on treatments’ costs and authorize admissions on partial deposit as per hospital policies allow. The financial counsellor in the emergency room is open 24/7. You can find the contact number of the Patient Business Services in the ‘Important Numbers’ section on the website homepage.

Your doctor and or nurse will give you specific instructions about the prescribed medication. Please ensure that you take or use the prescribed medicine as advised. It can be dangerous to your health if you self-prescribe. Please inform the doctor or nurse beforehand if you have experienced any adverse reactions to any medications in the past. If you experience any symptoms of drug poisoning, overdose or severe reaction please contact the Pharmacy Service at The Aga Khan University Hospital immediately. You can find the contact number of the Pharmacy Services in the ‘Important Numbers’ section on the website homepage.

The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.