Condition library

Eyelid and tear-drainage conditions

Conditions affecting the eyelids, eyelid margin, tear drainage and surrounding tissues.

Clinically reviewed · Last reviewed 2026-06-13

Blepharitis Inflamed eyelid margins causing crusting, grittiness and red rims; daily lid hygiene is the mainstay of control. Stye A painful red lump on the eyelid, usually from a blocked infected lash follicle; warm compresses help most cases settle. Chalazion A usually painless lump in the eyelid from a blocked oil gland; most clear with warm compresses. Droopy eyelid (ptosis) An upper eyelid that droops over the eye; usually age-related and treatable, but a sudden droop needs checking. Entropion (eyelid turning inward) An eyelid that turns inward so the lashes rub the eye; common with age and treatable, often with surgery. Ectropion (eyelid turning outward) A lower eyelid that sags outward, causing watering and dryness; common with age and treatable with surgery. Blepharospasm Involuntary, forceful eyelid spasms or closure; different from minor twitching and often treated with injections. Eye twitching (eyelid twitch) A common, harmless fluttering of the eyelid, usually linked to tiredness, stress or caffeine. Dacryocystitis Infection of the tear sac causing a painful, swollen lump by the nose; needs antibiotics. Blocked tear duct Tears cannot drain properly, causing a watery or sticky eye; common in babies and adults. Watering eyes Excessive tearing from blocked ducts, dryness or irritation; common and often treatable once the cause is found. Orbital cellulitis Deep infection around the eye causing painful swelling and often fever; a medical emergency. Squint (strabismus) Eyes that point in different directions; common in children and treatable, and can also affect adults. Amblyopia (lazy eye) Reduced vision in one eye that did not develop normally in childhood; most treatable when caught early. Thyroid eye disease Eye changes linked to thyroid problems, causing bulging, dryness and double vision; needs specialist care. Black eye Bruising and swelling around the eye after a blow; usually heals in days but needs checking if vision changes.

Frequently asked questions

What are the most common eyelid problems?

Blepharitis, styes, chalazia, watering from blocked tear ducts, and allergic swelling are among the most common. Regular lid hygiene helps many everyday cases.

When is a swollen eyelid an emergency?

Seek urgent care for painful swelling with fever, double vision, a bulging eye, or swelling after sinus infection or trauma — these can signal orbital infection.

Can thyroid disease affect the eyelids?

Yes. Thyroid eye disease can cause bulging eyes, lid retraction, dryness and double vision. It needs specialist monitoring even when the thyroid blood tests are controlled.

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