Chalazion

Overview

A chalazion is the chronic, painless inflammation of a blocked oil gland in the eyelid. These glands produce oil that lubricates the surface of the eye. Such lumps are generally harmless and often go away on their own. A doctor should be consulted for lasting or recurrent chalazia. Warm compresses can provide relief.

Symptoms

Main symptoms

• Painless lump on the eyelid
  • Slow-growing
  • Grapeseed- to hazelnut-sized
  • Primarily a cosmetic problem
  • Eyelashes don’t fall out

Complications

• Feeling of pressure on the eye
• Pressure impairs vision
• Conjunctivitis
• Recurrent chalazia

Causes and treatment

Causes

• Blocking of the (meibomian) oil glands along the edge of the eyelids by sebum
• Risk factors:
  • Blepharitis (eyelid infection)
  • Restricted or lack of function of the meibomian glands
  • Acne
  • Diabetes mellitus
  • Stye

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests

• Examination of the eyelid

Possible therapies

• Waiting (often heals spontaneously)
• Warm compresses
• Infrared treatment
• Eye drops or ointment, if necessary
• Surgical removal (if it doesn’t disappear)

What can I do myself?

• Warm compresses
  • Put on affected eyelid for 3 to 5 minutes, 1 to 2 times per day
  • As warm as you can handle, ideally around 39 degrees (to soften the oil blocking the glands)
• With soft pressure, massage eyelid towards the eyelashes
  • With clean fingertips or cotton buds
• Daily cleaning of eyelid
  • Diluted baby shampoo and cotton buds or cotton pads
  • Only use this solution once, prepare fresh every time

When to see a doctor?

• Chalazion doesn’t go away
• Recurrent chalazia
• Visual problems
• General impairment
• Severely reddened, fever

Synonyms

chalazion, eyelid cyst