Eyelid Disease

Abstract

Eye symptoms are a common presentation in general practice. According to the RCGP, they account for 4 500 000 GP consultations and cost the UK economy £22 billion each year. Both patients and practitioners are understandably anxious about eye problems, as vision is a very delicate and vital sense. In this article we will discuss the most common eyelid disorders, the pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, and primary care management options. The plethora of overlapping symptoms and aetiologies of eyelid disorders often leads to blanket management plans in general practice and the underlying diagnosis can be mismanaged, leading to persisting problems.