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What is a Chalazion?
The term chalazion comes from a
Greek word meaning a small lump. It refers to
a swelling in the eyelid caused by inflammation of one of the small oil
producing glands (meibomian glands) located in the upper and lower eyelids.
 A
chalazion is sometimes confused with a stye, which also appears as a lump in
the eyelid. A stye is an infection of a lash follicle that forms a
red, sore lump near the edge of the eyelid. A chalazion is an
inflammatory reaction to trapped oil secretions. It is not caused by
bacteria, although the site can become infected by bacteria.
Chalazions tend to occur farther from the edge of the eyelid than styes and
tend to "point" toward the inside of the eyelid. Sometimes a chalazion
can cause the entire eyelid to swell suddenly, but usually there is a
definite tender point.
How is a Chalazion
Treated?
When a chalazion is small and
without symptoms, it may disappear on its own. If the chalazion is
large, it may cause blurred vision. Chalazions are treated with any or
a combination of the following methods:
1. Warm compresses:
Warm compresses can be applied in a
variety of ways. The simplest way is to
hold a clean washcloth, soaked in hot
water, against the closed lid. Do this for five to ten minutes, three or
four times a day.
Repeatedly soak the washcloth in hot
water to maintain adequate heat. The
majority of chalazions will disappear within a few weeks. Sometimes
antibiotic ointments are used in combination with warm compresses.
2. Surgical incision or excision:
Large chalazions which do not respond to other treatments can
be surgically opened after the early inflammation is reduced.
Chalazions usually respond well to treatment, although some people are
prone to recurrences. If a chalazion recurs in the same place, your
ophthalmologist may suggest a biopsy to rule out more serious problems.
Why are
regular medical eye examinations important for everyone?
Eye disease can occur at any
age. Many eye diseases do not cause symptoms
until damage has occurred. Since most blindness is preventable if
diagnosed
and treated early, regular medical examinations by an ophthalmologist are
very important.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology is an organization of 25,000
ophthalmologists dedicated to preserving eye health and sight.
Our thanks to the AAO for this article. |
