You may have seen someone sleep with their eyes open before. Although it may seem scary or funny from the outside, it is actually a serious health problem.
Let’s take a closer look at this condition, called lagophthalmos, which can cause advanced health problems.
Let’s clarify what lagophthalmia is.
Lagophthalmos is a condition in which the eyelids cannot close completely. Damage to facial nerves; scars resulting from burns, trauma or surgical interventions; forward protrusion of the eyeball; It may occur due to neurological diseases such as stroke.
The eyelids cannot close completely and the eyes cannot be adequately protected. Corneal inflammation can lead to serious problems such as corneal ulcers, dry eyes, and even vision loss.
People with lagophthalmos also sleep with their eyes open at night.
When we close our eyes while sleeping, the eye surface remains moist and protected from external factors. On the other hand, the eyes of people with lagophthalmia cannot get adequate rest and protection during sleep. Problems such as eye dryness, irritation and eye fatigue arise.
To prevent it, depending on its severity and cause; Moisturizing ointment or artificial tear drops, bandages or special glasses to keep the eyelids closed, and in advanced cases, surgical interventions may be used.
If you suffer from lagophthalmitis, you should of course consult a specialist to get the most accurate information and follow the appropriate treatment method. Since lagophthalmos can lead to serious consequences for eye health, it is very important to consult an ophthalmologist when symptoms are noticed.
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