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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 eyelid

A chalazion is sometimes confused with a stye, which also appears as a lump r 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 &quot;point&quot; 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 sysmptoms, 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.

Chalazion 2. Steroid injections: Injections car be useful after soaks have been tried and a small lump remains. 3. Surgical incision or excision: Large chalazions which do not respond to other treaments 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 (Eye M.D.) may suggest a biopsy to rule out more serious problems.

Why are regular medical eye examinations important for everyone?


Compliments of Your Ophthalmologist

Daniel B Pope, M.D. PA

426 Manatee Ave W Bradenton, FL 34205


THE EYE M.D. Association

P.O. Box 7424, San Francisco, CA 94120-7424 Copyright© 1997 American Academy of Ophthalmology®



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