Ophthalmology;;
ABOUT THE DISEASE
Ptosis means drooping of the eyelid. When the upper eyelid droops or sags, it is called blepharoptosis, or upper eyelid ptosis. Ptosis can be unilateral or bilateral i.e present in both eyes.
CAUSES
Ptosis might exist since birth (congenital) or might be acquired later during the life. It is essentially caused due to the weakening of the muscles that raise the eyelid or due to a nerve damage. This can be caused due to normal aging process or an injury or due to some other disease. A fluctuating ptosis might indicate Myasthenia Gravis or the nerve might get damaged due to certain kinds of cancer or a stroke. Other reasons could be diabetes or horner syndrome.
SYMPTOMS
DIAGNOSIS
Ptosis is diagnosed by a physical examination, some other tests might be conducted to rule out Myasthenia Gravis.
TREATMENT METHODS
No treatment might be required in mild cases esp those caused due to aging. Eyelid lift surgery (Blepharoplasty) is conducted to repair sagging or drooping upper eyelids.
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