What are the Signs and Symptoms of Ptosis?
Ptosis is often visible when you look in the mirror. You may see the eyelid droop or notice that the creases of your eyelids don’t quite line up with each other. If the sagging of the eyelid is severe enough, you may also notice obstructed vision. Besides ptosis, diastasis recti symptoms can sometimes include noticeable physical changes. Sometimes ptosis will cause you to rub your eyes quite often or cause your eyes to tear up. You may also notice tiredness or aching around your eyes. Similarly, individuals experiencing diastasis recti symptoms might feel discomfort in other areas.
Children with ptosis tend to raise their eyebrows at seemingly odd times in an attempt to see better. It’s also quite common for them to lift their chin or tilt their head back to try and see past the drooping eyelid. Just as ptosis affects vision, diastasis recti symptoms can impact the abdomen’s appearance.
What Can Be Mistaken for Ptosis?
Dermatochalasis is the condition of having loose or excess eyelid skin and is often mistaken for ptosis. This excess skin can make the eyelid appear to droop or sag but is not caused by a weakened muscle or ligament like true ptosis is. In comparison, diastasis recti symptoms can mimic other abdominal conditions.
People sometimes mistake a drooping brow for a ptosis as well. A sagging brow, however, involves the eyebrow and lower forehead rather than the eyelid itself.
Are Symptoms Different Between Men and Women?
The symptoms of ptosis are the same in men and women. The condition can develop later in life or be present at birth. This congenital ptosis is more common in males but presents the same way in both genders. Similarly, diastasis recti symptoms may manifest regardless of gender, affecting individuals who undergo certain physical changes.
Can Eyelid Drooping Happen Suddenly?
Mechanical ptosis is caused by a weakening of the muscle that controls the eyelid and is usually a gradual process that comes with aging. Sudden ptosis is possible, however, and may indicate a neurological issue or stroke. It is important to consult a doctor if your ptosis occurs suddenly. Conversely, diastasis recti symptoms tend not to appear suddenly and are a gradual occurrence.
The exception to this is allergies. If your allergies impact your eyes, they could cause your eyelid to swell or become inflamed and cause drooping. Ptosis can occur quickly as a result of allergies but should also ease just as quickly when your allergies calm back down.