This guideline last updated 06/05/2022 17:43:34

Differential diagnosis

• Other causes of ocular irritation / red eye

Possible management by Optometrist

Treatment

• Ocular lubricants for symptomatic relief (drops for use during the day, unmedicated ointment for use at bedtime)
• Epilation: remove lashes with forceps
• Advise patient that lashes will re-grow within 4-6 weeks, therefore epilation may need to be repeated
• Consider therapeutic contact lens (silicone hydrogel soft, rigid limbal or rigid scleral) for temporary relief of symptoms

Advice

• If due to entropion, tape the eyelid for temporary relief of symptoms
• Lid hygiene for associated blepharitis

Management Category

• Mild cases requiring epilation only; normally no referral
• Routine referral to ophthalmologist for more severe cases for surgical intervention

Possible management by Ophthalmologist

• Electrolysis
• Cryotherapy
• Argon laser photocoagulation
• Lid surgery