Conjunctivochalasis is a condition where the thin transparent membrane covering the white of the eye becomes loosened. Folds in this membrane can sometimes interfere with tears and cause irritation. At Experience Care, our optometrist assesses the factors contributing to your symptoms.
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The conjunctiva covers the sclera and the inside of the eyelids. Over time or with certain ocular surface factors, it may become looser.
Conjunctivochalasis refers to the formation of folds in this membrane, most often at the lower margin. These folds can remain silent or contribute to discomfort when they interfere with tears.
THE CARE EXPERIENCE
The optometrist checks if folds affect the distribution or drainage of tears.
Dryness, irritation, allergies, eyelids, or inflammation can contribute to symptoms depending on the context.
Based on the observed signs, next steps may range from lubrication to plasma treatment for certain mild to moderate folds, or a referral to ophthalmology for severe forms.
Symptômes
Irritation, tearing, or a foreign body sensation can have multiple causes. The context helps determine what to check.
01
Folds may disrupt tear drainage or distribution in some individuals.
02
The sensation of a grain of sand can stem from an irritated surface or a fold that rubs.
03
The eye may burn, sting, or become red, especially when the surface remains unstable.
Vision may become blurry at times and then return after a few blinks.
Some symptoms are more pronounced when the eyelid and conjunctiva move differently.
Drops can provide partial relief, but won't fully resolve the discomfort if folds are contributing to the problem.
Slight redness may accompany surface irritation.
Light sensitivity can accompany an irritated eye surface.
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When an eye tears while remaining irritated, the optometrist also checks the conjunctiva. Small folds may obstruct tears and may be mistaken for simple dryness.
Dr. Francesca Olinga, optometrist
Overview
Not all folds tell the same story. Their position, height, and effect on tears guide the next steps.
How to use these indicators
Four profiles to locate discomfort
To connect what you feel with what the optometrist observes during the examination.
01
Mild
Small folds may be visible without explaining all symptoms.
Signs
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Low and flexible folds
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Absence or variability of symptoms
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Monitoring or simple measures possible
02
Tears
The folds may affect the area where tears normally accumulate at the bottom of the eye.
Signs
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Lacrimation or overflow possible
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More marked discomfort when blinking
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Symptoms that mimic dry eye
03
Surface
Dryness, inflammation, allergies, or friction may amplify discomfort.
Signs
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Associated redness or burning
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Irritating factors to look for
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Surface care often discussed
04
Severe
When folds are significant or symptoms are persistent, an ophthalmological evaluation may be indicated.
Signs
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Persistent symptoms despite initial steps
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More significant surface involvement
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Possible referral to ophthalmology
How folds obstruct tears
01
The conjunctiva can form folds, often in the lower part of the eye.
02
Folds can impede the small tear reservoir or their distribution over the eye.
03
When tears don't flow as well, the eye can water, sting, redden, or become blurry at times.
Causes
The exact cause is not always unique. The conjunctiva may become looser over time; the ocular surface may also be more fragile or more prone to inflammation.
Repeated rubbing, the dry eyes, a blepharitis, a Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD), allergies, or certain eyelid problems may also contribute simultaneously.
Perspective
Conjunctivochalasis often progresses slowly. Treatment is not always necessary; however, care options may be considered when folds disrupt tears or irritate the eye’s surface.
An evaluation is useful if the eye tears frequently, if the foreign body sensation recurs, or if the symptoms do not align with simple dryness.
Vision loss should be evaluated promptly.
Urgent
Significant pain should not be automatically attributed to conjunctivochalasis.
Urgent
True photophobia can indicate another superficial or internal condition.
Urgent
Remove contact lenses and seek an evaluation if the eye is red or painful.
Immediat
An acute injury or foreign body sensation requires examination.
Immediat
The optometrist considers the size of the folds, their effect on tears, irritation, and signs that help decide between surface comfort, JETT plasma, or referral.
These guidelines help distinguish comfort treatments, associated factors, cases where plasma may be discussed, and situations where a referral is preferable.
Schedule an assessment
An optometrist and founder of the CARE Clinic, Dr. Francesca Olinga understands dry eye because she has experienced it. Experienced in the management of complex cases (neuropathic pain, demodex, chalazions), she uses innovation and attentive listening to guide you toward improved eye comfort.
Optometrist with over 30 years of experience and speaker for eye care professionals. Dr. Nguyen has experience in improving visual quality affected by dry eye. She supports her patients in reconciling their aesthetic goals (makeup, cosmetics) and optimal eye comfort.
An optometrist and member of theOOQ, Dr. Daniel Nguyen splits his practice between eye exams in an optometry clinic and advanced management of dry eye conditions at the CARE Clinic. This dual practice provides him with a comprehensive view of his patients' visual health, from routine screenings to cutting-edge therapeutic protocols. dry eye Biography of Karine Charbonneau
