Chalazion

A chalazion is a small lump in the eyelid caused by an obstruction of an oil producing or meibomian gland within the eyelid. Chalazia may occur in the upper or lower lids. It is often red and may be tender and sore.

A chalazion is caused by the oil in the gland becoming too thick to flow out of the gland. This blocks the gland, but the gland still produces more oil.

Without anywhere to go, the oil builds up inside the gland and forms a lump in the eyelid. Typically, this lump grows over days to weeks. Eventually, the gland ruptures (breaks open) and releases the oil into the tissue of the eyelid, causing inflammation, a process in which the body reacts to a condition and produces a biologic reaction. This reaction can cause swelling, redness, pain, or warmth.

The term “sty” is sometimes used to refer to a hordeolum and sometimes refer to both a chalazion and a hordeolum. However, a chalazion is not a hordeolum. A hordeolum can resemble a chalazion in the sense that it is also a lump in the eyelid. However, a hordeolum is usually more painful and looks infected. Neither condition is contagious.

TREATMENT FOR CHALAZION
Treatment of the chalazion may include the following:

• Application of warm compresses for about 15 minutes, 2-4 times a day, to reduce swelling
• Light massaging of the area several times a day
• A prescription for antibiotic eye drops or ointments if a bacterial infection is suspected to be the cause
• Do not “pop” or scratch the chalazion

If the chalazion does not resolve after these measures, your McKinley provider may refer you for treatment by an ophthalmologist (a medical doctor who specializes in eye care and surgery).

You should contact your provider immediately if you experience any of the following:

• Fever
• Headache
• Any visual changes (e.g. blurred vision, decreased ability to see)
• Eye pain or drainage
• Extensive swelling or redness
• If both the upper and lower eyelid of one eye is swollen
• If both eyes are swollen

References
eMedicineHealth Web site: search for chalazion
Image of eye used courtesy of: University of Illinois at Chicago/Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. Copyright University of Illinois Board of Trustees. Web site at: http://www.uic.edu/com/eye/LearningAboutVision/EyeFacts/BlepharitisStyeChalazion.shtml

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