How Do You Spell LAGOPHTHALMY?

Pronunciation: [lˈaɡəfθˌalmi] (IPA)

Lagophthalmy refers to a condition where the eyelids are unable to fully close over the eyes. It is pronounced as /læɡə(ʊ)’θælmi/ with stress on the second syllable. The first syllable is pronounced as the short 'a' sound /æ/ followed by the consonant cluster /ɡə/. The second syllable begins with the long 'o' sound /əʊ/, followed by the voiced 'th' sound /ð/ and the syllabic consonant /l/. The final syllable has the short 'i' sound /i/. The spelling of the word is based on its Greek origin, which literally means "hare-eye".

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
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LAGOPHTHALMY Meaning and Definition

  1. Lagophthalmy is a medical term that refers to a condition where a person has difficulty closing their eyelids completely. The word comes from the Greek words "lagos" meaning "hare" and "opthalmos" meaning "eye," hence the term lagophthalmy can be translated as "hare-like eye."

    When someone has lagophthalmy, their eyelids do not close tightly or fully, leaving a small opening between the upper and lower eyelids. This condition can be temporary or chronic and can affect one or both eyes. It is commonly associated with various underlying causes such as facial nerve paralysis, trauma or injury to the eyelids or facial muscles, or certain neurological conditions.

    The incomplete closure of the eyelids in lagophthalmy can lead to several complications. Firstly, it can cause excessive dryness of the eyes as tears evaporate more quickly due to inadequate protection. This can result in discomfort, irritation, and a gritty sensation in the eyes. Secondly, lagophthalmy can impair normal blinking motions, which can affect tear distribution and the natural cleansing action of the eyelids. Consequently, this can lead to further discomfort and increase the risk of eye infections or corneal damage.

    Treatment for lagophthalmy depends on the underlying cause. In some cases, the condition may resolve spontaneously or with conservative measures such as artificial tears or lubricating eye ointments. However, more severe or persistent cases may require surgical intervention to correct the eyelid function and ensure proper eye protection and lubrication.

Common Misspellings for LAGOPHTHALMY

  • lagophthalmia
  • kagophthalmy
  • pagophthalmy
  • oagophthalmy
  • lzgophthalmy
  • lsgophthalmy
  • lwgophthalmy
  • lqgophthalmy
  • lafophthalmy
  • lavophthalmy
  • labophthalmy
  • lahophthalmy
  • layophthalmy
  • latophthalmy
  • lagiphthalmy
  • lagkphthalmy
  • laglphthalmy
  • lagpphthalmy
  • lag0phthalmy
  • lag9phthalmy

Etymology of LAGOPHTHALMY

The word "Lagophthalmy" is derived from two Greek words: "lagos" meaning "hare" and "ophthalmos" meaning "eye". Therefore, "Lagophthalmy" literally translates to "hare eye" in Greek.