Overview

Ingrown eyelash, medically referred to as trichiasis, is a condition where the eyelashes grow inward toward the eye instead of outward. This abnormal growth can cause significant irritation as the lashes rub against the eyeball or inner eyelid. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, untreated ingrown eyelashes can lead to eye discomfort, redness, corneal abrasions, and even vision problems in severe cases. It commonly affects the lower eyelid but can occur on the upper eyelid as well.

Causes

Several factors can contribute to the development of ingrown eyelashes, including:

• Chronic eye infections: Recurrent infections like blepharitis can alter eyelash growth patterns.
• Trauma: Injuries or surgeries involving the eyelids may result in misdirected lash growth.
• Inflammatory conditions: Conditions like trachoma or ocular rosacea can lead to scarring and ingrown lashes.
• Autoimmune diseases: Diseases such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome can affect eyelid anatomy.
• Congenital factors: Some people are born with abnormal eyelash growth direction due to genetic predisposition.
• Aging: Age-related changes in skin elasticity and eyelid positioning can cause lashes to turn inward.

Symptoms

The symptoms of ingrown eyelashes can range from mild to severe, depending on the number and position of misdirected lashes:

• Eye irritation: A constant feeling of something scratching the eye.
• Redness: Inflammation and redness of the affected eye.
• Tearing: Increased tear production as a reflex response to irritation.
• Sensitivity to light: Photophobia can occur due to corneal irritation.
• Blurred vision: Excessive irritation and tearing may temporarily affect vision.
• Corneal damage: In severe cases, chronic abrasion from lashes can lead to corneal ulcers or scarring.

Diagnosis

Diagnosing ingrown eyelashes is usually straightforward and involves:

• Clinical examination: An ophthalmologist uses a slit lamp to examine the eyelashes and eye surface closely.
• Assessment of underlying conditions: Identifying any chronic eye diseases, infections, or previous trauma contributing to the condition.
• Corneal evaluation: Checking for signs of corneal abrasions or ulcers caused by misdirected lashes.

Treatment

Treatment of ingrown eyelashes focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing recurrence:

• Manual eyelash removal: Simple removal with forceps provides immediate relief but may be temporary as lashes can regrow.
• Electrolysis: Destroying the lash follicle with electrical current to prevent regrowth.
• Cryotherapy: Freezing the hair follicle to stop abnormal lash growth.
• Laser ablation: Laser treatment to remove problematic follicles with precision.
• Surgical correction: In severe or recurrent cases, eyelid surgery (entropion repair or lash rotation surgery) may be recommended.
• Lubricating eye drops: Used to soothe irritation while awaiting or following treatment.
• Antibiotic eye drops: Prescribed if there is any associated infection.

Prognosis

The prognosis for ingrown eyelashes is generally excellent with proper treatment:

• Good short-term relief: Most patients experience immediate symptom relief after lash removal.
• Risk of recurrence: Without destroying the lash follicle, regrowth is common, necessitating repeated treatments.
• Effective long-term solutions: Electrolysis, cryotherapy, or surgical interventions offer long-lasting or permanent correction.
• Prevention of complications: Early treatment prevents corneal damage and preserves clear vision.

Regular follow-up with an eye care specialist helps monitor for recurrence and ensures optimal eye health.