Eyelashes are known to be a protection of our eyes against debris or bacteria. What if the eyelashes itself become our problem? There are lots of disorders and diseases we have to know. Here are some:
Milphosis/Madarosis
This came from an ancient Greek work “madaros” which means “bald”, which refers to the loss of eyelashes or eyebrows. This is a sign of many systemic diseases and deserves detailed systemic examinations and consultation with an endocrinologist or internist for further administration.
The cause of the loss of the eyelashes is the inflammation of the eyelids due to seborrhea, infection, allergy or trauma. Infection is due to staphylococcus aureus results in thin, and honey colored flakes among the eyelashes. Trauma is due to rubbing or plucking which cause a unilateral or bilateral loss of the lass. Allergy is due to use of any eye cosmetics such as mascara. The waterproof mascaras are difficult to remove and thus more lashes may take with them.
Blepharistis
This is characterized to be a chronic inflammation of the eyelid margins and this is an ocular disease. This may cause itchiness, redness of the eyes and irritation of the rough feeling may occur. The skin becomes flaky so the eyelashes might fall. Lubricating drops however can improve its conditions.
Distichia
This is an abnormal growth of the lashes in some areas of the eyelid. This is usually causes no symptoms since the lashes are soft. But still it can irritate the eyes and cause tearing, inflammation, straining as well as corneal ulcers and scaring. Treatment can be optimized by a manual removal, eletrocautery, electrolysis, cryotherapy or surgery.
Trichiasis
This is the medical term for ingrown eyelashes. Position of the eyelashes is abnormal which it grows back toward the eye, thus touching the conjunctiva or the cornea. Autoimmune condition, infection, congenital defects eyelid agenesis, inflammation and trauma such as eyelid injury or burns are the main causes of this disease. Loss of vision can be led by severe cases if untreated. Mild cases sometimes not require treatment.
Infection from Crab Louse Parasites
Eyelashes are sometimes infested with crab louse parasites that are known to be a notorious species infecting human genitals. This species live in the areas with hair including the eyelashes. They exclusively feed on blood. Itchiness is the main symptom. It becomes strong enough two or more weeks after initial infestation.
Trichotillomania
This is a disorder that advocates the victim to pull out eyelashes, scalp hair and others. This is commonly known as trich or defined as “patient hair loss results from a repetitive self-pulling of hair. This is noticeable through bald patches. It may seem to resemble a habit or addiction. This is a tic disorder or an obsessive disorder. This will result to hair loss, distress and social or functional impairment and it is often difficult to treat.
Demodex follicurum
This is a small mite that lives, harmlessly, in eyelash and other hair follicles this is around 98% of people have these mites living on them. This is occasional can cause blepharitis which is mentioned above
Whatever disease come into our eyelashes it is best to take care of it. Before using any other products to enhance our beauty it is needed that we know whatever consequences that will come.