? blepharospasm

[chrissie2010]

My partner was diagnosed with blepharospasm over a year ago, then recently with blepharitis.  He has seen several consultants, the current consultant believes it may not be blepharospasm and has referred him to a clinical psychologist.  Our lives have been put on hold - as my partner is unable to work, drive, or live a normal life.  His condition has similar symptoms to blepharospasm - ie involuntary closure of his eyes, made worse with bright lights, sun, windy conditions etc.  Is there ANYONE out there who can give any suggestions, please?  Thanks for reading this - we are at our wits end!

[Michael J Kutryb, MD]

See a corneal specialist or excellent general ophthalmolgist and try all possible remedies to address dry eyes and blepharitis.  Look into all possible remedies including dietary supplements like flax and fish oil and punctul plugs, restasis, and also look very closely for lid margin disease.  Secondly, I'm ver surprised that botox didn't help and it makes me wonder how much experience that doc has with botox for that problem.  Suggest you see oculoplastic surgeon who has experience in botox for blepharospasm.  In the end it may be a combination of all 3 problems.  Finally, look for dry eye side effects from medications as a potential culprit. Restasis can be a Godsend if used in the right cases for a year or so.

MJK MD

[chrissie2010]

My partner has seen 2 neurologists, 3 oculoplastic surgeons and a consultant ophthalmologist (neurology).  He is currently using celluvisc for his dry eye and has also tried lacrilube and clinitas ultra 3.  The botox injections did not work (1 neurologist and 2 ocuplastic surgeons tried botox).  He was prescribed clonazepam about 6mths ago, which he tried for approx 6wks, but this was of no benefit - the side effects were terrible (moody/aggressive).  Punctul plugs have been mentioned, but the consultant thought his tear ducts were too small so this appears not to be an option.  As my partner's condition worsens when he is outside, the consultants have suggested he use sunglasses/dark glasses - but these do not help.  The consultants seem to be baffled as to his condition(s) and how to treat him.  A brain scan has been suggested, but not actioned - is this a good idea?  Thank you for any help/suggestions.

[chrissie2010]

Also should mention my partner has had botox injections, which do not have much (if any) effect.  He has also been diagnosed as having dry eye and uses drops.  Is there any hope of a normal life returning?