There are several types of psoriasis, and plaque psoriasis is the most common. It involves the development of patches, or plaques, of extra skin cells.
These can form thick, silvery scales, and they may be itchy and painful.
These plaques commonly affect trusted Source the scalp, joints, hands, and feet, but they can appear almost anywhere on the body, including on the face and eyelids.
Eyelid psoriasis affects about 10% of all people who have psoriasis.
Symptoms
Psoriasis on or around the eyelids can be difficult to live with because the skin in this area is very sensitive.
Some of the symptoms of eyelid psoriasis include:
- redness, scaling, and crusting around the eyelids
- the rims of the eyes turning upward or downward
- irritation, including pain and itching
- eyelashes that rub on the eye
- scales that resemble dandruff flaking off and sticking to the eyelashes
- pain when moving the eye
Inflammation can lead to swelling, which may cause the eyelashes to rub against the eyeball.
If the inflammation continues for some time, the edges of the eyelids may turn upward or downward. If they become inverted, the lashes can rub against the eyeball. Irritation and other complications can develop as a result of this.
In rare cases, psoriasis can affect the eye, leading to inflammation, dryness, discomfort, and possibly vision loss.
Causes
Psoriasis results from a problem with the immune system. It develops when the body reacts incorrectly to its own skin cells and results in the rapid growth and turnover of skin cells.
Genetic factors play a role, and psoriasis can run in families. However, an environmental trigger is usually necessary for psoriasis to actually develop.
Such triggers include:
- infections
- stress
- some medications
- sunburn
- skin damage due to an injury, bite, or other trauma
Treatment
A person should see a doctor if they notice:
- any new symptoms of psoriasis, especially on the eyelids
- worsening symptoms
- adverse effects of medication
Various treatments and home remedies can help relieve psoriasis, including that which affects the eyelids.
Treatment options include:
- topical medications
- oral medications
- systemic drugs
- biologic therapy
- home remedies