The eyelid plays an essential role in protecting your eyes and maintaining eye health. Eyelids are fold of skin that closes over both eyes to protect them from any type of injuries. There are upper and lower eyelids. Eyelid health can range from mild irritations to more serious conditions that require medical attention.

Functions of the eyelid:

1. Protective barrier: Shields the eyes from dust, debris, and injury.
2. Moisture maintenance: Spreads tears evenly across the eye to prevent dryness.
3. Light regulation: Helps block excess light, aiding in vision and sleep.

Signs that may require medical attention:

1. Swelling or redness: If your eyelid is persistently swollen, red, or painful, it could indicate an infection (e.g., cellulitis or a stye) or an allergic reaction.
2. Drooping eyelid (Ptosis): If one or both eyelids suddenly droop, it may signal a nerve or muscle issue, potentially linked to conditions like myasthenia gravis or a stroke.
3. Persistent lump: A small lump (e.g., a chalazion) that does not go away or grows larger may need medical evaluation.
4. Painful bumps or blisters: Painful lesions or blisters could indicate shingles (herpes zoster) or other viral infections.
5. Vision changes: Blurry vision, double vision, or vision loss alongside eyelid issues can suggest a more serious underlying problem (e.g., orbital cellulitis or thyroid eye disease).
6. Discharge or crusting: Yellow, green, or excessive discharge, especially with swelling or redness, could indicate conjunctivitis (pink eye) or another infection.
7. Bleeding or trauma: If your eyelid was injured or is bleeding without an obvious cause, this warrants medical evaluation.
8. Persistent twitching (Myokymia): Occasional twitching is normal, but constant twitching might suggest nerve irritation or fatigue.
9. Skin changes: New growths, dark patches, or irregularities on the eyelid skin might be a sign of skin cancer or another dermatological issue.

Common minor conditions:

1. Dry eyes or blepharitis: Often linked to flaky skin, irritation, or clogged oil glands. These can usually be managed with warm compresses and proper hygiene.
2. Styes: Small, red, and painful lumps often resolve on their own or with warm compresses.

Self-care tips for eyelid health:

1. Maintain eyelid hygiene: Use warm compresses to clean and unblock oil glands. Gently clean with diluted baby shampoo or a lid scrub.
2. Avoid rubbing eyes: Prevents irritation and reduces the risk of infection.
3. Remove makeup: Always remove eye makeup thoroughly before sleeping.
4. Monitor for irritants: Avoid allergens or harsh chemicals near your eyes.
   
   When to see a doctor?

• If symptoms persist beyond a few days despite home care.
• If pain, redness, or swelling worsens.
• If you experience any of the vision-related symptoms above.

Image credit: Photo by MART  PRODUCTION: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-close-up-shot-of-a-person-with-colorful-eyeshadow-7290731/ (Free to use)