An ingrown eyelash (trichiasis) is a common eye problem that causes eyelashes to grow abnormally.
Instead of growing out, ingrown eyelashes grow inward toward the eye.
If an ingrown eyelash is not treated, it can even damage your eye.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
Constant irritation can lead to corneal abrasion.
If the condition is untreated or chronic, inflammation and vision loss can happen.
A persons eye looks healthy, but the eyelashes just seem to grow inward instead of outward.
A common cause of trichiasis isblepharitis(infection andinflammation of the eyelidsand eyelid margin).
When this happens, the hair follicles can get misdirected and trichiasis can develop.
Your provider will put a staining solution in your eye that can show any areas of damage.
What Is the Difference Between Trichiasis and a Stye?
There are a few options that may be used to treat trichiasis.
Your healthcare provider will decide which treatment option is best for you.
A corneal abrasion can cause a lot of damage to your eye.
Summary
Ingrown eyelashes are a common problem.
If you get ingrown eyelashes often, see an eye health provider for an exam.
They might be able to offer treatment that could keep them from coming back.
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Review of Ophthalmology.Trichiasis: Lashes gone astray.
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