PTOSIS: TYPES, CAUSES AND SYMPTOMS

The most noticeable indicator of ptosis is a sagging eyelid. You can generally identify whether a person has ptosis by examining the appearance of the eyelid. It might cover only the upper part of your eye obscure the entire pupil. Another indication is when the creases of the upper eyelids are not aligned symmetrically. But did you know that there are different types of ptosis?

TYPES OF PTOSIS

Ptosis is of 2 types and can occur in both children and adults.

1. Congenital ptosis refers to a condition present at birth. Occurs due to issues with the development of the levator muscle. A child with ptosis may tilt their head backward, elevate their chin, or raise their eyebrows to improve their vision. Over time, these compensatory actions can lead to issues with the head and neck. At times, a child born with ptosis may also experience additional eye-related complications. These can include difficulties with eye movement, disorders of the eye muscles, tumors (on the eyelid or in other locations), and various other issues.
2. Acquired ptosis affects adults later in life and happens when the levator muscle weakens or detaches from the eyelid. A result of injuries or diseases that weaken the muscles or ligaments responsible for lifting the eyelid. In some cases, damaged nerves controlling the eyelid muscles can also cause drooping.

CAUSES OF PTOSIS

1. Aging: Most cases of ptosis develop as people age. With aging, the skin and muscles of the eyelids become stretched and weakened. Occasionally, previous eye surgeries can accelerate this change because the tools used to keep the eye open may stretch the eyelid, weakening muscles and nerves
2. Injury or trauma: Harm to the eyelid or adjacent muscles.
3. Neurological conditions: Disorders such as myasthenia gravis or third nerve palsy.
4. Other medical conditions: Diseases and Certain ailments or conditions that might lead to ptosis include; Stye, External ophthalmoplegia, Stroke, Myasthenia gravis, Horner syndrome, and brain Tumor.

SYMPTOMS OF PTOSIS

1. Droopy eyelid: The most visible symptom.
2. Vision problems: Challenges in seeing due to obstructed vision. As time passes, Reduced or impaired vision
3. Eye strain: Increased effort is needed to compensate for the droopy eyelid.
4. Fatigue and discomfort around the eyes.
5. Head tilting: Some individuals may tilt their heads for better visibility
6. Frequent rubbing of the eyes.
7. Epiphoria: Increased amounts of tears.

In our next post IS ON TREATMENT options for ptosis stay tuned. If you or anyone around has ptosis: consult TREETOP VISION EYE CENTRE (TREVEC), the best eye clinic in Utako, Abuja.

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