Symptoms:

• Decreased vision if the cornea is damaged
• Excessive tearing
• Eye discomfort or pain
• Eye irritation
• Redness

Signs and tests:

A physical examination of the eyes and eyelids confirms the diagnosis. Special tests are usually not necessary.

Treatment:

Artificial tears (a lubricant) may provide relief from dryness and keep the cornea lubricated. Surgery to correct the position of the eyelids is usually effective.

Severe cases may need surgery to protect the eye.

Expectations (prognosis):

The outlook is usually good if the condition is treated before cornea damage occurs.

Complications:

Corneal dryness and irritation may increase the risk of:

• Corneal abrasions
• Corneal ulcers
• Eye infections

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if:

• Your eyelids turn inward
• You constantly feel as though there is a foreign body in the eye

If you have entropion, the following should be considered an emergency:

• Decreasing vision
• Light sensitivity
• Pain
• Eye redness that increases rapidly

Prevention:

Most cases are not preventable. Treatment reduces the risk of complications.

People who have recently traveled to an area where there is trachoma (North Africa, South Asia) should seek treatment if they have red eyes.