Sometimes the anatomy of the eye can become distorted. The eyes may bulge from their sockets, or the eyelids may turn inward or outward. The weird eye diseases discussed here can be helped by surgery.
Proptosis
Proptosis is an eye condition in which the eyes literally protrude from their sockets. According to the Merck Manual, this condition typically occurs when eye tumors, infections and bleeding occur within or outside of the eyes.
Corneal (thin layer of your eye) ulcers and visual problems can result when eyes protrude. Visual problems occur because the optic nerve is stretched.
Treatment for proptosis involves addressing its cause. Sometimes thyroid problems and tumors cause this disease. Utilizing eye shades and corticosteroids may help manage proptosis, the Merck Manual says. Radiation and surgery may be necessary in severe cases.
Entropion
Asoprs.org says an entropion is a condition in which the eyelid turns into the eye and leads to irritation and red eyes. Tearing, mucus drainage and eyelid crusting can occur if the entropion isn't treated. This eye problem typically occurs with age progression and can also stem from such medical conditions as Bell's Palsy (facial paralysis), surgeries and other traumas. Also, the eyelashes can irritate the cornea (thin surface layer of the eye) and cause vision problems.
Asoprs.org says lubricating ointments and eyedrops can prevent the eyes from drying out. Also, two or three sutures (stitches) may be placed in the eyelid to correct the eyelid inversion. This procedure is known as the Quickert procedure. Another option involves surgery to tighten the eyelid to allow it to assume its normal position.
Ectropion
An ectropion is the exact opposite of an ectropion. Asoprs.org says an ectropion refers to a sagging eyelid or outwardly turned lower eyelid. Its specific manifestations include eye irritation, burning, tearing and redness of the conjunctiva (lower or upper lid membranes). Like an entropion, an ectropion can also increase your risk of developing corneal irritation. Corneal ulcers may result.
This eye condition is also treated with lubricating ointments or artificial tears, says Asoprs.org. Surgery can be performed to tighten the lower eyelid, using skin grafts from behind the ear.
