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Overview - Entropion is the medical term for an eye condition in which the eyelids turn
inward toward the eyeball instead of outward as they should.
When eyelids turn inward, they allow the dog's eyelashes and fur to rub against
the eye causing irritation, excessive tearing and pain. Left untreated, this
irritation can cause infections and painful ulcers on the surface of the eye
that lead to blindness.
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Causes - Entropion can be inherited or acquired. Any dog less than six months of age with entropian is usually
considered to have inherited entropion. Acquired cases of entropion include eyelash abnormalities producing corneal pain, foreign bodies in the eye corneal
injury, and conjunctival infections or inflammation.
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Symptoms - the affected eye is partially held shut and has excessive tearing. Both eyes are usually affected simultaneously.
Breed related entropion usually affects dogs under 1 year of age.
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Treatment - Entropion that is caused by a temporary eye irritation can sometimes be relieved
by using appropriate medication prescribed by your veterinarian. In many cases,
though, entropion needs to be corrected surgically.
This surgery involves removing a small portion of the skin to tighten the eyelid.
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