Chalazion

A chalazion is a small, typically painless lump that forms on the eyelid when a meibomian gland becomes blocked. These glands are responsible for producing the oily layer of your tear film, and when they become clogged, the gland can become swollen, resulting in a chalazion. Unlike a stye, chalazions are usually not caused by an infection but by blocked oil glands.

• Blockage of oil glands (Meibomian glands) in the eyelids

• Accumulation of thickened oil leading to inflammation

• Chronic blepharitis or eyelid inflammation increasing risk

• Poor eyelid hygiene contributing to gland blockage

• Previous eyelid infections or styes can trigger chalazion formation

• Skin conditions like rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis may worsen symptoms

• Hormonal changes affecting oil gland secretion

• Small, painless lump or swelling on the eyelid

• Gradual development over days or weeks

• Redness and mild tenderness around the lump

• Possible slight eyelid heaviness or discomfort

• Blurred vision if the chalazion presses on the eye

• Occasional watery eyes or increased tearing

• Absence of acute pain differentiates it from styes

• Usually affects the upper or lower eyelid

• Apply warm compresses for 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times daily to reduce swelling.

• Gently massage the eyelid to help drain the blocked gland.

• Maintain good eyelid hygiene; clean with mild soap or baby shampoo.

• Avoid squeezing or trying to pop the chalazion.

• Use over-the-counter lubricating eye drops if irritation occurs.

• Consult a doctor if it persists beyond 2 weeks or worsens for possible medical treatment

A warm compress is one of the most effective home treatments for a chalazion. The heat helps to loosen the hardened oil inside the meibomian gland, allowing it to drain more easily. To apply a warm compress, soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring out the excess water, and place the cloth over the eyelid for 10 to 15 minutes, several times a day. This method can alleviate symptoms and help reduce the size of the lump.

In most cases, chalazions can be treated at home with warm compresses, but medical attention may be required if the lump does not improve or becomes increasingly painful. Seek medical help if the chalazion causes vision problems, affects your eye’s appearance, or is accompanied by excessive swelling, redness, or pus. An eye doctor may recommend professional treatment, including draining or corticosteroid injections.

To prevent recurrent chalazions, maintaining proper eyelid hygiene is key. This includes gently cleaning your eyelids daily to remove oil and debris. If you wear makeup, make sure to remove it thoroughly before sleeping. Additionally, people with conditions like blepharitis or rosacea should follow their doctor’s recommendations for managing these underlying issues, as they can increase the likelihood of developing chalazions.

While both chalazions and styes are lumps that form on the eyelid, they differ in their causes and characteristics. A stye is an infection of the oil glands near the eyelash follicles, often painful and swollen, whereas a chalazion is typically a non-infected blockage of the meibomian glands. Styes usually cause more pain and redness than chalazions, and while a stye may resolve with proper care, chalazions might require drainage if they persist or become problematic.