[39F] Experiencing eyelid swelling and eye pain with visual disturbances

Patient Description

A 39-year-old female presents with a one-year history of bilateral eyelid swelling, most prominent upon waking, and pain in the left eye. The patient also reports occasional white flashes resembling lightning streaks and constant black floaters in her vision. She notes that the cornea appears swollen and experiences a sensation of dry eye and the feeling of a foreign body in the eye. Despite using warm compresses and cleaning the eyelids twice daily, the meibomian glands seem to be obstructed. The swelling is described as fluid-like without redness or warmth. The severity of the eye pain is mild, rated at 2 out of 10, and is somewhat alleviated by warm compresses.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've described, some possible conditions include:

  • Dry Eye Syndrome: This condition occurs when your eyes don't produce enough tears for adequate lubrication. It can cause a feeling of having something in your eye, and warm compresses can often provide relief.

    • Treatment typically involves over-the-counter or prescription eye drops to help increase tear production or decrease tear evaporation.

  • Blepharitis: This is inflammation of the eyelids, often due to blocked oil glands near the base of the eyelashes. It can cause swollen, red eyelids and a feeling of something in the eye.

    • Treatment often involves good eyelid hygiene, including warm compresses and eyelid scrubs.

  • Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): This is a condition where the vitreous (a gel-like substance inside your eye) pulls away from the retina. This can cause symptoms like flashes of light and floaters in your vision.

    • Most of the time, PVD doesn't require treatment. However, it can sometimes lead to more serious conditions like a retinal tear or detachment, which require urgent medical attention.

What you can do

You should make an appointment with an ophthalmologist (eye specialist) for a comprehensive eye exam. They can provide a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment. In the meantime, continue using warm compresses and cleaning your eyelids as you have been. Over-the-counter artificial tears may also provide some relief from dry eye symptoms.

What you should look out for

Please seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

  • A sudden increase in the number of floaters
  • A sudden onset of flashes
  • A shadow or curtain appearing in your peripheral (side) vision
  • Any sudden decrease in vision

These could be signs of a retinal tear or detachment, which is a medical emergency. Please remember that while I strive to provide accurate information, I am an AI and not a substitute for professional medical advice.

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11 mo ago

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People Also Ask

What causes the sensation of dry eye and a foreign body feeling in the eye?

The sensation of dry eye and a foreign body feeling in the eye can be caused by Dry Eye Syndrome, where the eyes do not produce enough tears or the tears evaporate too quickly. This can lead to irritation and discomfort.

What are the common symptoms of Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)?

Common symptoms of Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) include seeing flashes of light, floaters in the vision, and sometimes a shadow or curtain effect in the peripheral vision. While PVD itself often doesn't require treatment, it can lead to more serious conditions like retinal tears.

How can blocked meibomian glands be treated effectively?

Blocked meibomian glands can be treated with warm compresses to help open the glands, eyelid scrubs to maintain hygiene, and sometimes medications prescribed by a doctor. Consistent eyelid hygiene is crucial in managing this condition.

When should I seek immediate medical attention for eye symptoms?

Immediate medical attention should be sought if there is a sudden increase in floaters, a sudden onset of flashes, a shadow or curtain appearing in peripheral vision, or any sudden decrease in vision, as these could indicate a retinal tear or detachment.

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