eye lashes falling out

My eyelashes have been falling out for 20 years. My eye doctor look long and hard to find what was going on. Even went back to talk to his professor to see if he knew what it was. It's called Maderous, if I spelled it right. You can find all about it look up Dr. Weil, eye lashes falling out. It will come up. Good luck I have found nothing that will stop it from happening. But good luck to you all who are dealing with it.


This discussion is related to eyelashes falling out.

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Falling of eyelashes is clinically called madarosis. Various possibilities are there for madarosis. One that is quite common is wiping your eyes too vigorously or absent-mindedly pulling the hairs out. Allergic reaction to the eye cosmetics can also be responsible for this symptom.

Other causes are eczema(a form of chronic dermatitis (rash).Allergic reaction is one of the important causes of eczema. Allergic reaction can occur to strong soaps, Solvents, chemicals, certain foods, food additives, plants, metals, cosmetics, even urine and faeces of some animals (dust mites) , blepharitis due to eyelid infections and infection with a mite called D. folliculorum, which can cause swelling and inflammation of the eyelash follicles.
Internal diseases like thyroid conditions, autoimmune diseases and leprosy can also lead to madarosis.

Treatment modalities for all are different. It would be better if you discuss these possibilities with an eyelid specialist (an oculoplastic surgeon).
It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your dermatologist. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.