Causes of Nocturnal Lagophthalmos
It may sound strange, but nocturnal lagophthalmos is actually considered a form of facial paralysis; it involves the orbicularis muscle in the eyelid and may be temporary or permanent. It can be caused by several things including Bell's Palsy, infection, stroke, surgery, and trauma.
What Nocturnal Lagophthalmos Feels Like
If you suffer from nocturnal lagophthalmos, you may awaken with dry eye symptoms such as a foreign body sensation, redness, pain and blurry vision. Some people also complain of increased light sensitivity.
Treatment of Nocturnal Lagophthalmos
Treatment usually involves artificial tear eye drops given several times per day along with instillation of a bland eye gel or ointment at bedtime.
To prevent the eyelid from opening at night, medical grade hypoallergenic tape may be gently applied to the eyelid to keep it closed. A mask worn over the eyes may also help. Your doctor may also recommend that you turn down or turn off ceiling fans.