Lagophthalmos Plays a Role in Dry Eye
Laura M. Periman, MD
Lagophthalmos Plays a Role in Dry Eye
Nocturnal lagophthalmos plays a substantial role in dry eye manifestation and treatment outcomes, and it’s time we start taking it more seriously.
For years, dry eye specialists have encountered patients whose symptom severity is conspicuously worse in the morning. In response, we developed practical tips to help patients avoid desiccating stresses at night. These recommendations frequently involve instructing the patient to avoid turbulent air across the faces (fans, AC, forced air heat), allergens and mites. Many of these patients follow our instructions diligently and still wake up dry, inflamed and in pain. Fortunately, in recent years, we’ve gained important insight into several of the underlying mechanisms contributing to this problem. We have subsequently identified nocturnal lagophthalmos – or insufficient eyelid seal – as a more prevalent and influential compounding factor than previously believed.
Link: Original Article On The Ophthalmologist
About the author
Laura M. Periman, MD
Dr. Periman is an ocular surface disease expert and director of Dry Eye Services and Clinical Research in Seattle, Washington.
