What is lymphedema-Distichiasis?
People with lymphedema-distichiasis syndrome develop puffiness or swelling (lymphedema ) of the limbs, typically the legs and feet. Another characteristic of this syndrome is the growth of extra eyelashes (distichiasis), ranging from a few extra eyelashes to a full extra set on both the upper and lower lids.
What are the symptoms of distichiasis?
Symptoms of Double Eyelashes
- Eye pain.
- Swelling.
- Redness.
- Irritation.
- Vision loss.
- Sensitivity to light.
- Styes (small, painful bumps on your eyelid)
- A feeling that something is rubbing against your eye when you blink (foreign body sensation)
Can you have distichiasis without lymphedema?
Primary distichiasis is thought to be only found as part of lymphoedema–distichiasis (LD) syndrome, although some individuals may only have signs of distichiasis and some only lymphoedema (less than 5% in each case).
Can lymphedema cause eye problems?
Patients with this condition have a small head (microcephaly), lymphoedema (swollen limbs caused by problems with the lymphatic system) and eye problems called chorioretinopathy, which frequently result in night blindness.
Is distichiasis hereditary?
Lymphedema-distichiasis syndrome is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder. Dominant genetic disorders occur when only a single copy of an abnormal gene is necessary to cause a particular disease. The abnormal gene can be inherited from either parent or can be the result of a mutated gene in the affected individual.
How can I improve lymphatic drainage around my eyes?
Lymphatic drainage is the process of helping “drain” lymph fluid, which can help awaken the skin and get rid of puffiness. At home, you can practice lymphatic drainage by giving yourself a face massage either with your hands or with a tool like a jade roller.
Can lymphedema spread to the brain?
Researchers have found a new gene that, when mutated, can lead to lymphedema (swollen limbs) as part of a rare disorder that can also cause problems with eye and brain development. This is the fourth lymphedema-related gene found by the same researchers in three years, and the first linked to the eyes and brain.