Definition:
Eyelid drooping is excessive sagging of the upper eyelid. See also: Drooping eyelid disease
Alternative Names:
Considerations:
A drooping eyelid can stay constant, worsen over time (progressive), or come and go (intermittent). It can be one-sided or on both sides. When drooping is one-sided (unilateral), it is easy to detect by comparing the two eyelids. Drooping is more difficult to detect when it occurs on both sides, or if there is only a slight problem. A furrowed forehead or a chin-up head position may indicate that someone is trying to see under their drooping lids. Eyelid drooping can make someone appear sleepy or tired. Drooping lids are either present at birth (congenital) or develop later in life. A drooping eyelid is not a reason to panic, but you should report it to your doctor.
Common Causes:
Both eyelids drooping: One eyelid drooping: - Growth in the eyelid, such as a stye
- Medical problem
- Nerve injury
- Normal aging process
- Normal variation
References:
Custer PL. Blepharoptosis. In: Yanoff M, Duker JS, Augsburger JJ, et al, eds. Ophthalmology. 2nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Mosby Elsevier; 2004: chap 86.
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