Understanding Inadequate Lid Seal (ILS): When Your Eyelids Don't Fully Close at Night

Have you ever woken up with dry, irritated eyes, even after a seemingly restful night? You might be experiencing a condition known as nocturnal lagophthalmos. While it sounds complex, it simply means your eyelids don't fully close during sleep. This seemingly small issue can lead to significant discomfort and even long-term eye health problems.

What is Inadequate Lid Seal?

Inadequate Lid Seal (ILS), also known as nocturnal lagophthalmos, often referred to as incomplete eyelid closure, occurs when the eyelids fail to completely shut during sleep. A very specific form of this is Inadequate Lid Seal (ILS). This leaves the cornea, the clear front surface of the eye, exposed to air, causing excessive tear evaporation and dryness.

Causes of Nocturnal Lagophthalmos

Several factors can contribute to this condition, including:

• Facial Nerve Palsy (Bell's Palsy): Damage to the facial nerve can weaken the muscles responsible for eyelid closure.

• Eyelid Surgery or Trauma: Previous surgeries or injuries to the eyelids can affect their ability to close properly.

• Thyroid Eye Disease: This autoimmune condition can cause eyelid retraction and incomplete closure.

• Stroke: In some cases, a stroke can affect the nerves controlling eyelid movement.

• Congenital Issues: Some individuals are born with eyelids that don't fully close.

• Age related changes: As we age, our eyelid skin can become lax causing the eyelid to not close fully.

Symptoms and Effects

The symptoms of inadequate lid seal can range from mild to severe and often worsen throughout the night. Common symptoms include:

• Dry, irritated eyes upon waking

• Burning or stinging sensations

• Redness and light sensitivity

• Blurred vision, especially in the morning

• Feeling like there's something in your eye (foreign body sensation)

• Corneal dryness or damage in severe cases.

If left untreated, ILS can contribute to other conditions in the eye and may even lead to serious complications, such as corneal abrasions, ulcers, and even vision loss.

How ILS Affects Sleep 

Beyond the direct impact on eye health, ILS can also disrupt sleep and exacerbate other existing eye conditions. The discomfort and irritation caused by dry eyes can lead to restless nights and frequent awakenings, affecting overall sleep quality.

Managing Inadequate Lid Seal

Fortunately, there are several ways to manage this condition:

• Artificial Tears and Ointments: Lubricating eye drops and ointments can help keep the eyes moist throughout the night.

• Humidifiers: Adding moisture to the air can reduce tear evaporation.

• SleepTiteSleepRite: Products such as SleepTiteSleepRite are specifically designed to create a moist environment around the eyes during sleep, and to provide a gentle seal, directly addressing the core problem of incomplete lid closure.

• Medical Intervention: In severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary to correct eyelid closure.

Why Early Detection is Important

If you suspect you have ILS, it's crucial to consult an eye care professional. Early detection and treatment can prevent long-term complications and improve your overall quality of life.

By understanding ILS and its effects, you can take proactive steps to protect your eyes from the root cause of dry eye and ensure a comfortable, restful night's sleep. If you are waking up with dry eyes, talk to your eye doctor, and research solutions such as SleepTiteSleepRite.  Shop now and start your journey to relief!