silmalaugude

Silmalaugud is the Estonian term for the eyelids, the movable folds of skin and tissue that protect the eyeball. In humans each eye has an upper and a lower eyelid. The eyelids comprise several layers: skin with eyelashes along the free margin, a dense connective-tissue tarsal plate, the levator palpebrae superioris tendon and the sympathetic Müller’s muscle that assist elevation, the orbicularis oculi muscle that closes the lids, and the palpebral conjunctiva lining the inner surface. Meibomian glands in the tarsal plates secrete lipids that stabilize the tear film, while glands around the lash follicles (Zeis and Moll) contribute lubrication.

Functionally, eyelids protect the eye from injury and excessive light and help maintain a stable tear Film by blinking. Blinking distributes tears, removes debris, and reduces evaporation, supporting corneal health and comfort. The eyelids also play a role in expressing emotions and protecting the eye during sleep.

Common clinical topics related to silmalaugud include blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid margins), chalazion and styes (lipogranulomatous or infection-related lesions of glands), ptosis (drooping of the upper lid due to levator dysfunction), and entropion or ectropion (inward or outward turning of the lid). Disorders can affect tear film balance, comfort, and vision, and may require hygiene measures, medications, or surgical intervention.

In medical and ophthalmologic contexts, attention to eyelid health is important for overall eye protection, tear film stability, and the prevention of corneal complications.