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| A chalazion develops in the meibomian gland,
inside the eyelid. |
Overview
A chalazion (kuh-LAY-zee-on) is a cyst that forms in the
eyelids as a result of a blockage in one or more of the
meibomian glands that produce oil that forms the outer
layer of tears. It initially may resemble a stye – being
red, tender and swollen. But after a few days, chalazia
typically become a painless, slow-growing bumps that,
unlike a stye, do not contain live bacteria. However,
they may attract bacteria and lead to an infection or
occur as an after-effect of a stye. But in most cases,
chalazia are gone within a few months, although one
chalazion cyst may be followed by other, possibly larger
cysts over several years.
Chalazia – named for the Greek word for small bump
– can be so small that they are barely visible or as
large as a pea. If they become large enough, they can
press against the cornea, distorting the eyeball and
blurring vision.
Symptoms
The first symptom is the swelling of the eyelid with
little to no tenderness. Other symptoms include:
- A slow-growing bump that is firm and painless
- Surrounding skin may be loose
- Blurred vision if the chalazion is large
Prevention
If you are prone to chalazion, keeping the eyelid
margins very clean and free of debris may prevent
recurrences. Washing with a warm washcloth and very mild
shampoo can do this. Scrub the outer eye and lashes
gently and rinse with warm water at least once per day.
It is also advised to keep your hands clean, to avoid
rubbing your eyes and to not share eye makeup.
Treatment
Warm compresses are usually the first line of treatment,
helping to unclog the duct and allowing pus to drain
away. Simply place a folded washcloth moistened in warm
water on the affected area for 10-15 minutes, four times
a day. You can also gently massage the lid from the nose
outward to help release blocked fluid from the gland.
Your eyecare practitioner may also prescribe eye
drops, ointment or oral antibiotics, depending on the
degree of inflammation and tenderness. Some research
indicates that homeopathic medicines may dissolve the
chalazion, but you should discuss this option with your
eye doctor before starting the medicine. If the
chalazion persists for more than 6 weeks, quick and easy
surgery (chalazion excision) can be performed in a
doctor’s office to remove it.
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