Trichiasis is a frequent anomaly of the eyelid, in which eyelashes grow inside, towards the eyes.
This condition affects the cornea, conjunctiva and the inner surface of the eyelids and irritates the eye.
Anyone can develop trichiasis, even though the disease is more common in the elderly. Trichiasis can be caused by an infection of the eye, inflammation (swelling) of the eyelid, autoimmune diseases and trauma.
Some conditions increase the risk of developing trichiasis:
- Epiblepharon – a congenital disease, which happens when lax skin around the eyes forms a fold which places the eyelashes vertically.
- Herpes zoster on the eye
- Trauma to the eye
- Chronic blepharitis
- Trachoma
- Some rare diseases of skin and mucous tissue – syndrome of Stevenson-Jonson and cicatricial pemphigoid.
If you have trichiasis, your eyes feel irritated from the feeling of a foreign body inside them. Other symptoms include redness, tearing and sensitivity to bright light.
The treatment for trichiasis includes removal of the eyelashes, their follicles or both, or redirecting the growth of the eyelashes.
Other surgical procedures include:
- Electrolysis – a process which uses electricity to permanently remove hairs. Even though it is very effective, electrolysis takes time and can be painful.