Chronic/persistent orbital edema and abnormal eyelash growth loss

[Kar712]

46 y.o. RN finally diagnosed with chronic dry eye syndrome/blepharitis after much doctor hopping. Currently on Tx level 4 of protocol (doxycycline, restasis, punctal plugs lower bilaterally, etc.)  My problem is that EVERY ONE I have encountered regarding the following 2 problems is BAFFLED!!!

1.  Chronic/persistent orbital edema that DOES NOT decrease/dissipate with warm compresses or any treatment.....it has actually increased over the past year
2.  Chronic/persistent ABNORMAL eyelash loss and eyelash regrowth patterns...there are even areas where eyelashes will no longer grow at all!!!

Is there anyone out there that would have suggestions or recommendations on what may potentially be causing this severely altered state of my eyes?????  I am mortified, devastated and desperate!!  Please help!!!

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

The abnormal  or lost lashes are a common finding with chronic blepharitis but not dry eye syndrome.  The better your blepharits is controlled, the better the lashes will do.  Also consider an evaluation for thyroid disease or other endocrine abnormality.  If really concerned consider seeing seeing an endocrinologist.  Some finall words - blepharitis and dry eyes are CHRONIC conditions and cause a lot of long term frustration.  In your case, I would work hardest have comfortable eyes - which perhaps you have.  Now cosmetic problems like swelling around the eyes or lost lashes are less of a big deal to me but could be a major concern for a young woman who wants to look good.  Make sure you are eating an excellent diet with strong vitamin and omega 3 and flax oil supplement.  Understand that your genetics probably play a major role in your problems.  Keep in close touch with an excellent, understanding ophthalmologist.
MJK MD

[Kar712]

Good afternoon Dr. Kutryb!
Thank you very much for your response.  It is greatly appreciated!!  I have considered pushing the issue of seeing an Endocrinologist and possibly an allergist as it seems not only my eyes but my body has become hypersenitive to various things recently.

And, yes, my physical appearance, both personally and professionally, are very conerning to me.  I do take the Omega 3 complex by theratears as well as using their eyelid scrub product they just introduced as well as Vitamins, Zinc, B complexes, etc.

I wish I could blame the edema on genetics, but my family inherited those "good" genes which allow us to age nicely!  Unfortunately, since my eye problems began, my eyes now appear sullen, sunken and the size and shape have changed as well!!

Thank you again!!