Eyelid drooping

Definition

This is excessive drooping of the upper eyelid(s). See also drooping eyelid disease (ptosis).

Considerations

Drooping eyelids can be constant, progressive, or intermittent. It can be one-sided, or on both sides. When drooping is one-sided (unilateral), it is easy to detect by comparing the relative position of the 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 congenital (present at birth) or acquired later in life. A drooping eyelid is not a reason to panic, but should be reported to the doctor.

Common Causes

Both eyelids

• Normal variation of the eyelids
  
• Normal aging process
  
• Migraine headaches
  
• Medical problem such as myasthenia gravis
  

One eyelid drooping

• Normal variation
  
• Normal aging process
  
• Nerve injury
  
• A growth in the eyelid such as a stye
  
• Medical problem
  

Home Care

Below is a list of recommendations based on various causes for eye drooping.

• Caused by nerve injury - consult your doctor about surgical correction.
  
• Caused by an allergic reaction - consult your doctor about antihistamine or steroid treatment.
  
• Caused by aging - no treatment is necessary.
  
• All other causes - follow your health care provider's recommendations.
  

Call your health care provider if

• One eyelid suddenly droops or closes.
  
• Eyelid drooping is affecting appearance or vision.
  
• It is associated with other symptoms such as double vision.
  

What to expect at your health care provider's office
The medical history will be obtained, and a physical examination performed.