Date of last review: Due to be updated

Differential diagnosis

  • Other causes of ocular irritation / red eye

Possible management by Optometrist

Treatment

  • Ocular lubricants for symptomatic relief (drops for use during the day, unmedicated ointment for use at bedtime)
  • Epilation: remove lashes with forceps
    • Advise patient that lashes will re-grow within 4-6 weeks, therefore epilation may need to be repeated
  • Consider therapeutic contact lens (silicone hydrogel soft, rigid limbal or rigid scleral) for temporary relief of symptoms

Advice

  • If due to entropion, tape the eyelid for temporary relief of symptoms
  • Lid hygiene for associated blepharitis

Management Category

  • Mild cases requiring epilation only; normally no referral
  • Routine referral to ophthalmologist for more severe cases for surgical intervention

Possible management by Ophthalmologist

  • Electrolysis
  • Cryotherapy
  • Argon laser photocoagulation
  • Lid surgery