Chalazion

By Admin, March 1, 2013

What is a chalazion?

A chalazion is a bump in the eyelid that is usually about the size of a small pea.

Is a chalazion the same thing as a stye?

A chalazion is not exactly the same thing as a stye, although the terms are often used interchangeably. A stye, referred to as a hordeolum, is a bump in the eyelid that occurs when an oil gland becomes infected. In effect, it is like a small abscess or “boil” on the edge of the eyelid. A chalazion is an accumulation of material in the eyelid as a result of a blocked oil gland.

What are the treatment options for chalazia?

Most chalazia resolve by themselves within several days to weeks, but sometimes can take months to completely disappear. Warm soaks of the affected area can promote drainage of the blocked gland. Anti-inflammatory eye drops, ointments or an injection into the bump may be needed. A large swollen or persistent chalazion might require oral antibiotics and/or surgical removal.

How can chalazia be prevented?

A daily regimen of eyelid scrubs or washes can reduce the chances of developing new chalazia. This is especially useful when blepharitis is present. For those with a recurrent problem, topical or oral antibiotics are sometimes prescribed.

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