How do you know if a chalazion is healing. What are the signs of a healing chalazion. How long does it take for a chalazion to heal completely. What are the most effective home remedies for treating chalazia. When should you seek medical attention for a chalazion. Can chalazia be prevented. What are the potential complications of untreated chalazia.

Understanding Chalazia: Causes and Symptoms

A chalazion is a lump on the eyelid caused by inflammation, typically resulting from clogged oil glands near the eyelashes or in the inner eyelid. While often confused with styes, chalazia are distinct in that they usually don’t cause pain but may lead to irritation. These lumps can affect vision and cause discomfort, prompting many to seek effective treatment options.

What causes a chalazion to form? The primary culprit is blocked meibomian glands, which are responsible for producing the oily layer of tear film. When these glands become obstructed, the oil builds up, leading to inflammation and the formation of a chalazion.

• Blocked oil glands
• Poor eyelid hygiene
• Underlying skin conditions (e.g., rosacea)
• Hormonal changes

Common symptoms of a chalazion include:

• A painless lump on the eyelid
• Mild swelling and redness
• Increased tearing
• Blurred vision (if the chalazion is large)
• Eye irritation

Recognizing the Signs of Chalazion Healing

As a chalazion begins to heal, several changes occur that indicate progress. Understanding these signs can help patients monitor their condition and determine when further intervention may be necessary.

Size Reduction

The most noticeable sign of a healing chalazion is a reduction in size. As the contents of the lump slowly drain, the chalazion becomes smaller and less prominent. How can you accurately measure this change? While volume would be the ideal measurement, it’s difficult to assess at home. Instead, consider tracking the horizontal width of the lump or taking regular photographs to compare over time.

Improved Vision

If the chalazion was large enough to affect vision, improvement in sight is a positive indicator of healing. As the lump shrinks, any pressure on the eyeball decreases, potentially resolving blurred vision caused by the chalazion.

Reduced Irritation

Healing chalazia often lead to a decrease in eye irritation. This may manifest as:

• Less eye dryness
• Improved tear production
• Decreased redness around the affected area
• Reduced sensitivity to light

Pain Relief

While chalazia are typically painless, some individuals may experience discomfort if the lump scratches the cornea. As healing progresses, any pain or tenderness should subside.

Effective Home Remedies for Chalazion Treatment

Conservative treatment at home is often sufficient for healing chalazia. These methods focus on softening the oil blocking the glands, facilitating drainage, and reducing inflammation.

Warm Compresses

Applying warm compresses is a cornerstone of chalazion treatment. How should you apply a warm compress effectively?

1. Soak a clean cloth in hot water
2. Apply to the affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes
3. Repeat 3-5 times daily
4. Rewet the cloth as needed to maintain warmth

An alternative method involves using a sock filled with uncooked rice, microwaved for 20 seconds, which retains heat longer than a traditional washcloth.

Gentle Massage

Following the warm compress, gently massaging the eyelid around the chalazion can help break up the contents of the lump and promote drainage. Use clean hands and apply light pressure in a circular motion.

Maintaining Eyelid Hygiene

Keeping the eyelids clean is crucial for preventing and treating chalazia. Regular eyelid scrubs using baby shampoo or specialized eyelid cleansers can help maintain proper hygiene and prevent recurrence.

Medical Interventions for Persistent Chalazia

When home remedies prove ineffective, medical treatments may be necessary. These interventions aim to address underlying infections, reduce inflammation, and remove persistent lumps.

Antibiotic Therapy

While chalazia are primarily caused by inflammation rather than infection, antibiotics may be prescribed if a secondary infection is suspected. These can be in the form of oral medications, topical ointments, or eye drops.

Steroid Treatment

For significantly swollen chalazia, doctors may recommend steroid injections or ointments. These treatments can effectively reduce inflammation and promote healing. Are steroid treatments safe for all patients? While generally well-tolerated, individuals with certain medical conditions or those taking specific medications should consult their healthcare provider before using steroids.

Surgical Drainage

In cases where a chalazion is large enough to impair vision or persists despite other treatments, surgical drainage may be recommended. This procedure involves making a small incision to remove the contents of the lump.

Timeline for Chalazion Healing

Understanding the typical duration of chalazion healing can help manage expectations and determine when to seek additional treatment.

Natural Healing Process

Most chalazia resolve on their own within a few weeks to a month. However, some may persist for several months. The healing time can vary depending on factors such as the size of the chalazion, individual health conditions, and adherence to treatment protocols.

Drainage Timeline

The process of a chalazion draining fully can take weeks to months. Gradual reduction in size is a positive indicator of ongoing drainage. Patience is key, as rushing the process or attempting to manually drain the chalazion can lead to complications.

Preventing Chalazion Recurrence

While chalazia can often recur even after successful treatment, several preventive measures can reduce the likelihood of future occurrences.

• Practicing good hand hygiene, especially before touching the face
• Removing all makeup before sleeping
• Regularly cleaning eyelids with gentle cleansers
• Using warm compresses proactively to maintain healthy oil gland function
• Managing underlying conditions like rosacea or blepharitis
• Staying hydrated to support overall eye health

When to Seek Medical Attention

While many chalazia resolve with home treatment, certain situations warrant professional medical evaluation. When should you consult a doctor for a chalazion?

• The chalazion persists for more than a month despite conservative treatment
• The lump appears to move or migrate to another location on the eyelid
• You experience significant pain or suspect an infection
• The chalazion is large enough to obstruct vision
• You notice frequent recurrence of chalazia
• There are signs of spread beyond the eyelid, such as facial swelling or fever

Seeking timely medical attention can prevent potential complications and ensure appropriate treatment for persistent or severe cases.

Potential Complications of Untreated Chalazia

While chalazia are generally benign, leaving them untreated can occasionally lead to complications. What are the risks associated with neglecting chalazion treatment?

• Chronic inflammation of the eyelid
• Scarring of the eyelid tissue
• Astigmatism due to pressure on the cornea
• Spread of infection to surrounding tissues
• Cellulitis, a potentially serious skin infection

Understanding these potential complications underscores the importance of proper care and timely treatment for chalazia.

Advanced Diagnostic Techniques for Chalazia

While most chalazia can be diagnosed through a simple visual examination, certain cases may require more advanced diagnostic techniques. These methods can help differentiate chalazia from other eyelid conditions and guide treatment decisions.

Slit Lamp Examination

A slit lamp examination allows an eye care professional to closely inspect the eyelid and surrounding structures. This microscope-like device provides a magnified, three-dimensional view of the eye, helping to assess the size, location, and characteristics of the chalazion.

Meibography

Meibography is a specialized imaging technique that visualizes the meibomian glands. This non-invasive procedure can reveal blockages or structural abnormalities in the oil-producing glands, which may contribute to chalazion formation.

Biopsy

In rare cases where a chalazion doesn’t respond to treatment or appears atypical, a biopsy may be performed. This involves taking a small sample of tissue for microscopic examination to rule out other conditions, such as malignancies.

Emerging Treatments for Chalazia

As medical research advances, new treatments for chalazia are being explored. These innovative approaches aim to improve healing times and reduce recurrence rates.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Therapy

IPL therapy, originally developed for dermatological treatments, has shown promise in managing meibomian gland dysfunction and related conditions like chalazia. How does IPL therapy work for chalazia? The treatment uses light pulses to target the affected area, potentially reducing inflammation and improving gland function.

Lipiflow Treatment

Lipiflow is a thermal pulsation system designed to treat meibomian gland dysfunction. While primarily used for dry eye syndrome, this treatment may help prevent chalazia by improving oil gland function and reducing blockages.

Photodynamic Therapy

This emerging treatment combines light-sensitive medications with specific wavelengths of light to target and treat abnormal cells. Research is ongoing to determine its efficacy in managing recurrent chalazia.

Lifestyle Factors Influencing Chalazion Development

Understanding the lifestyle factors that may contribute to chalazion formation can help individuals take proactive steps to reduce their risk. What daily habits might influence the development of chalazia?

• Diet: A diet high in omega-3 fatty acids may support overall eye health and reduce inflammation.
• Screen Time: Extended periods of screen use can lead to reduced blinking, potentially affecting oil gland function.
• Makeup Use: Using old or contaminated eye makeup can introduce bacteria to the eyelid area.
• Sleep Habits: Sleeping with makeup on or in dusty environments may increase the risk of oil gland blockage.
• Stress Levels: High stress may affect overall immune function and potentially increase susceptibility to eyelid issues.

By addressing these factors, individuals may be able to reduce their likelihood of developing chalazia and support overall eyelid health.

The Role of Nutrition in Chalazion Prevention and Healing

While often overlooked, nutrition plays a significant role in maintaining eye health and potentially preventing conditions like chalazia. What dietary considerations might impact chalazion development and healing?

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts, may help reduce inflammation and support healthy tear production. How do omega-3s benefit eye health? These essential fatty acids can improve the quality of meibomian gland secretions, potentially reducing the risk of blockages that lead to chalazia.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is crucial for maintaining healthy mucous membranes, including those in the eyes. Foods high in vitamin A, like sweet potatoes, carrots, and leafy greens, may support overall eye health and potentially reduce the risk of chalazion formation.

Hydration

Adequate hydration is essential for maintaining proper tear production and eye lubrication. Drinking sufficient water throughout the day can help prevent dry eyes and support healthy oil gland function.

Antioxidants

A diet rich in antioxidants, found in colorful fruits and vegetables, may help protect eye tissues from oxidative stress and inflammation. Examples include berries, citrus fruits, and dark leafy greens.

The Psychological Impact of Chalazia

While chalazia are primarily a physical condition, they can have significant psychological effects on those affected. Understanding and addressing these impacts is crucial for comprehensive patient care.

Self-Esteem and Body Image

The visible nature of chalazia can lead to self-consciousness and decreased self-esteem, particularly in severe or recurring cases. How can individuals cope with the aesthetic impact of chalazia? Strategies may include:

• Focusing on the temporary nature of the condition
• Using makeup techniques to minimize appearance (with doctor approval)
• Seeking support from friends, family, or support groups

Anxiety and Stress

The discomfort and potential vision impacts of chalazia can cause anxiety, especially if the condition persists or recurs. This stress may, in turn, affect overall health and potentially exacerbate the condition.

Social and Professional Impacts

In some cases, individuals with noticeable chalazia may experience social discomfort or professional challenges, particularly in occupations that involve frequent face-to-face interactions.

Addressing these psychological aspects alongside physical treatment can contribute to better overall outcomes and patient well-being.

Future Directions in Chalazion Research and Treatment

As medical science advances, new avenues for understanding and treating chalazia are emerging. What areas of research show promise for improving chalazion management in the future?

Genetic Factors

Ongoing research is exploring potential genetic predispositions to chalazion formation. Understanding these genetic factors could lead to more personalized prevention and treatment strategies.

Microbiome Research

The role of the eye’s microbiome in maintaining eyelid health is an area of growing interest. Future treatments may involve modulating the microbial environment to prevent chalazion formation.

Advanced Imaging Techniques

Developments in imaging technology may allow for earlier detection and more precise tracking of chalazion progression, potentially leading to more effective and timely interventions.

Nanotechnology

The application of nanotechnology in eye care could revolutionize chalazion treatment. Nanoparticles might be used to deliver targeted medications or facilitate more efficient drainage of blocked glands.

These emerging areas of research hold the potential to significantly improve our understanding and management of chalazia, offering hope for more effective treatments and prevention strategies in the future.

How Do You Know if a Chalazion is Healing? Signs of Easing

You can monitor the progress of your chalazion’s healing by noting changes in size and recognizing the reduction of any other symptoms.

A chalazion, sometimes also called a stye, is a lump on the eyelid caused by inflammation.

It’s often the result of clogged oil glands near the base of the eyelashes or in the inner eyelid. A chalazion usually doesn’t hurt, but it may cause irritation.

Chalazia (the plural of chalazion) usually get better on their own within a few weeks. But home treatments like warm compresses and eyelid massage may help speed up the process and relieve discomfort.

As a chalazion heals, the contents of the lump will slowly drain. The chalazion will then get smaller.

If the chalazion affects how you see, your vision should improve if the chalazion is healing. Feelings of irritation, like eye dryness or reduced tear production, should get better.

A 2018 study examined the effectiveness of conservative measures like warm compresses, eye drops, and ointments on healing chalazia.

The study evaluated the healing process by tracking the reduction in the size of the chalazion. The authors said volume would be an ideal measurement of chalazion size. But the volume of an eye lump is hard to measure, so they opted to monitor each lump’s horizontal width.

Complete resolution of the chalazion was defined as a 100% reduction in size. Otherwise, change was measured in millimeters.

A 2020 study on chalazion treatment and meibomian glands also measured chalazion size by horizontal width instead of volume using special ophthalmological instruments.

Someone with a chalazion might want to monitor its size at home by taking photos and comparing them as treatment progresses to see if the lump seems to be healing.

Chalazia come with symptoms like tearing and eye irritation. This is because the oil glands are blocked, which makes it harder to produce the tears you need for healthy eye lubrication. Large chalazia can also press against the eyeball, which can cause blurry vision.

As your chalazion heals, you may experience the following:

• reduced chalazion size
• inability to see or feel the chalazion, or it’s harder to find inside the eyelid
• healthy tears
• less irritation
• no blurry vision
• pain reduction

Some people experience pain if the chalazion scratches the cornea. An eye doctor can check the cornea for irritation using a fluorescein stain test.

You may want to contact a doctor if a chalazion:

• does not go away in 1 month
• moves or migrates to another spot
• is painful or you suspect an infection
• is large and obstructs vision
• comes back

A doctor may be able to recommend other treatments like antibiotics or surgery.

Conservative treatment at home usually works to heal a chalazion. If it does not, a doctor can help you explore other options.

Home remedies and over-the-counter treatment

Helping your chalazion to heal at home involves softening the oil blocking the glands. This helps the lump to drain and get smaller.

Place a clean cloth soaked in hot water against the chalazion for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, three to five times a day. You can keep the cloth warm by rewetting it with hot water as needed.

Another option is to take a handful of uncooked rice, put it inside a clean sock, tie it off and microwave it for 20 seconds. Heat is an essential part of this process, and the sock should retain the heat longer than a washcloth.

After using the compress, gently massage the eyelid around the chalazion. This helps to break up the contents of the lump.

Medical treatment

The medical treatment for chalazion often involves treating any underlying infection and removing the lump.

• Antibiotics: Chalazia are caused by inflammation, so antibiotics are usually not necessary. But a doctor may prescribe antibiotics if they think an infection is causing the inflammation.
• Steroids: A doctor may give you a steroid shot or prescribe a steroid ointment if the chalazion is very swollen. Steroids should bring down the swelling.
• Surgical drainage: When the chalazion is big enough to make it hard for you to see or doesn’t go away, a doctor may recommend removing the contents of the lump with surgery.

Here are answers to some common questions about chalazion healing.

How long do chalazia typically last?

Chalazia usually go away within a few weeks. But sometimes, they can last for months.

How long does it take a chalazion to drain fully?

A chalazion can take weeks or months to fully drain. You’ll know if the chalazion is draining if the lump gets smaller.

Can you prevent chalazia?

Chalazia often come back even after treatment. You can help prevent them by:

• washing your hands before touching your face
• removing all makeup before going to bed
• practicing good hygiene with regular eyelid scrubs and warm compresses to prevent the glands from becoming blocked

Chalazia are usually caused by blocked oil glands in the eyelid. They typically go away within a few weeks with home treatment. You can tell your chalazion is healing if it gets smaller and other symptoms like pain and irritation go away.

Chalazion | AOA

A chalazion often starts out as a very small, red, tender, swollen area of the eyelid and is generally not an infection. In a few days, it may change to a painless, slow-growing lump the size of a pea and can often be confused with a stye (or hordeolum), which is an infection of an oil gland in the eyelid.

A stye produces a red, swollen, painful lump on the edge or the inside of the eyelid and usually occurs closer to the surface of the eyelid than chalazion. If left untreated, a stye can result in the formation of a chalazion. Do not attempt to squeeze or drain the chalazion as it may require treatment for proper healing.

Causes & risk factors 

• Acne rosacea.
• Chronic blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids, often from excess bacteria).
• Seborrhea.
• Tuberculosis.
• Viral infection.
• Rarely chalazions  may be an indication of an infection or skin cancer.

Symptoms 

• Painless bump or lump in the upper eyelid or, less frequently, in the lower eyelid.
• Caused by a thickening of the fluid in the oil (meibomian) glands of the eyelid.
• Tearing and mild irritation may result as the obstructed glands are needed for healthy tears.
• Blurred vision, if the chalazion is large enough to press against the eyeball.
• More common in adults than children; most frequently occurs in people ages 30-50.
• Typically disappears without treatment within several weeks to a month, although they often recur.

Diagnosis 

A chalazion is best diagnosed by a doctor of optometry, who can advise treatment options.

Necessary testing might include:

• Patient history to determine symptoms and the presence of any general health problems that may be contributing to the eye problem.
• External examination of the eye, including lid structure, skin texture and eyelash appearance.
• Evaluation of the lid margins, base of the eyelashes and oil gland openings using bright light and magnification.

Treatment 

Most chalazions require minimal medical treatment and clear up on their own in a few weeks to a month.

• Apply warm compresses to the eyelid for 10 to 15 minutes, 4 to 6 times a day for several days. The warm compresses may help soften the hardened oil that is blocking the ducts and allow drainage and healing. Create a warm compress by dipping a clean, soft cloth in warm water and then wringing it out. Remoisten the cloth frequently to keep it wet and warm.
• Gently massage the external eyelids several minutes each day to help promote drainage.
• Once the chalazion drains on its own, keep the area clean, and keep hands away from the eyes. If the chalazion does not drain and heal within a month, contact a doctor of optometry.

Again, do not attempt to squeeze or “pop” the chalazion, as it may inadvertently cause more damage.

If the chalazion does not go away after several weeks, it may require medical treatment, which may include an incision to drain or an injection of steroids to reduce the inflammation and swelling.

Prevention 

The best way to prevent a chalazion is with good hygiene.

• Wash hands before touching around eyes or removing contact lenses.
• Wash face at bedtime to remove dirt and makeup.
• Remove eye makeup before going to bed and replace mascara, eyeliner and eye shadow every 3 months.
• The doctor may recommend gentle eyelid scrubs to prevent chalazions from recurring.

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≡ Chalazion: causes, symptoms and treatment

Chalazion is a benign neoplasm in the thickness of the skin of the eyelids, formed due to blockage and swelling of the sebaceous gland of the eyelids.
With chalazion, the symptoms at the beginning of the process resemble the manifestation of barley.
A chalazion often begins as a very small, red, tender, swollen area on the eyelid and is usually not an infection. After a few days, it can turn into a painless, slowly growing pea-sized swelling, and can often be confused with stye (or hordeolum), an infectious inflammation of the sebaceous gland on the eyelid.

A stye is a red, swollen, painful growth on the rim or inside of the eyelid and usually occurs closer to the surface of the eyelid than a chalazion. If left untreated, barley can lead to the formation of a chalazion. Do not attempt to squeeze or drain the chalazion as treatment may be required for proper healing.

Chalazion needs treatment if you start to feel pain around the eye or your visual acuity worsens. You should contact a specialist who will prescribe a pharmacological treatment for inflammation of the sebaceous gland of the eye. If such treatment is ineffective, surgical removal of the chalazion may be required. As for how to squeeze out a chalazion, this is absolutely not worth doing.

If a chalazion on the upper eyelid or on the lower eyelid recurs frequently, and appears in the same place at the same time, this may be a sign of more serious diseases, so you should consult a specialist to be sure. Urgent treatment will also be required for hemorrhage in the upper eyelid.

Chalazion causes and risk factors

Chronic blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids, often from an excess of bacteria).
Seborrhea.
Tuberculosis.
Acne rosacea.
Viral infection.
Rarely, chalazions may be a sign of infection or skin cancer.
Other systemic pathologies.
Idiopathic cases.

Stages of chalazion development

Meibomian glands are sebaceous glands located in the tarsal plate of the eyelid. If the outflow of these sebaceous secretions is obstructed, the oily secretions are retained and can seep into adjacent tissues, which in turn will lead to a chronic granulomatous inflammatory response. In the case of a long process of treatment of this disease, the chalazion can form a capsule, which will not disappear even under the influence of conservative treatment. In this case, the only treatment option is surgical removal of the capsule.

Chalazion symptoms

• Painless lesion on the upper or less commonly on the lower eyelid.
• Caused by thickening of fluid in the sebaceous (meibomian) glands of the eyelids.
• Lachrymation and mild irritation may occur as the blockage of the glands leads to disruption of the composition of the tear.
• Blurred vision if the chalazion on the lower eyelid or upper eyelid is large enough.

More common in adults than in children; most common in people aged 30-50 years.
Usually disappears without treatment within a few weeks or a month, although it can often recur.

Chalazion diagnostics

This disease is best diagnosed by an ophthalmologist who can advise on treatment options.

Required diagnostics may include:

Patient history to identify symptoms and any general health problems.
External view of the eye, including eyelid structure, skin texture, and eyelash appearance.
Evaluation of eyelid margins, base of eyelashes, and sebaceous gland openings using bright light and magnification (biomicroscopy).

How is chalazion treated

Most chalazions require minimal medical treatment and go away on their own in a few weeks.

Apply a warm compress to the eyelid for 10-15 minutes 4-6 times a day for several days. Warm compresses can help loosen hardened secretions blocking the ducts and allow for drainage and healing.

Gently massage the outer eyelids for a few minutes daily to promote drainage.

After the chalazion disappears on its own, maintain eyelid hygiene and avoid hypothermia.

Again, do not try to squeeze or squeeze out the chalazion, as this may inadvertently cause more damage.

If the chalazion, which often has complex causes, does not disappear or heal within a month, consult an ophthalmologist. Medical intervention may be required as prescribed by a doctor: an injection of steroids to reduce inflammation and swelling, or surgery to remove the chalazion along with the capsule.

Chalazion prophylaxis

It is not always possible to prevent a chalazion caused by bacteria. However, prevention of chalazion will help reduce the risk of its occurrence. To decrease the chance, better:

• do not rub eyes;
• wash hands before touching eyes, for example to put on contact lenses;
• protect eyes from dust and air pollution by wearing sunglasses or goggles;
• keep the eyelids clean with special eye cleansers, removing all make-up from the area around the eyes before going to bed;
• use only personal care products (towels, cosmetics).

If a person has frequent chalazion due to blepharitis, they should also gently cleanse the eye area daily with specialized eyelid cleansers. You should also use pre-moistened cleansing wipes or special eye scrubs.

Things to avoid

To prevent further discomfort or irritation, it is best to avoid eye makeup or contact lenses until the chalazion is gone. Avoid touching the eye area with your hands unless necessary.

Consequences and complications of chalazion

Untreated chalazion may contribute to the development of preseptal cellulitis, which may lead to progressive deformity of the eyelids. A large central chalazion can cause visual impairment due to the influence of direct contact with the cornea. Upper eyelid chalazion exacerbates astigmatism and corneal aberration, especially on the peripheral cornea. This risk increases significantly with chalazion larger than 5 mm. Therefore, the removal of these formations should be considered.

If you have a chalazion, Ochi Clinic will tell you how to treat it. You can find out more about the treatment directly in our ophthalmological center.

Our doctors carry out diagnostics and examination of the organization under light clinical protocols, zastosovuyuchi new evidence methods.

Permanent consultants of the ophthalmological center – the luminary of ophthalmology in various directions of microsurgery of the eye.

Chalazion: home treatment

Chalazion is a small, slowly growing cyst that develops inside the eyelid. Chalazion is usually painless and rarely lasts longer than a few weeks. This condition is the result of a blockage or inflammation of the meibomian gland. These glands produce fluid that bathes the surface of the eye.

Photo: Wikipedia

Chalazion – symptoms

In the early stages, a chalazion looks like a small, red swelling on the inflamed area of ​​​​the eyelid. A chalazion may appear on the upper or lower eyelid, but is more common on the upper eyelid. Although chalazion is usually painless, it can cause tearing and eye irritation. A particularly large chalazion can put pressure on the eyeball, which can lead to visual impairment.

What is the difference between barley and chalazion

People sometimes confuse chalazion with barley because of the similarity. Although often used interchangeably, the two terms refer to different types of lesions. A chalazion is due to a blocked meibomian gland, whereas a stye indicates an infected meibomian gland or hair follicle. However, chalazion can sometimes turn into styes.

There are two types of barley:

Outer barley occurs at the base of the eyelashes and is usually the result of an infection of the hair follicle.

Internal stye develops within the eyelid and is usually the result of an infection in the meibomian gland.

The most noticeable difference between chalazion and stye is that chalazion is usually painless. Styes are usually very painful and can cause inflammation of the eye. Other symptoms of barley may include:

• swelling of the eyelids;
• small boil, which may contain pus;
• crust on the edge of the eyelid;
• sensitivity to light;
• lacrimation.

In most cases, the stye increases in size for about 3 days before an infiltrate appears. It usually goes away within a week.

Chalazion – Causes

Chalazion occurs when there is inflammation that affects the eyes or skin. Some of these diseases are as follows:

• chronic blepharitis;
• acne rosacea;
• seborrheic dermatitis.

Less commonly, chalazion develops due to viral conjunctivitis, which is a type of eye infection.

Other risk factors

• viral infections;
• tuberculosis;
• skin cancer;
• diabetes mellitus.

How to treat chalazion at home?

Chalazion tends to self-heal within a few weeks. At the same time, it is important to avoid squeezing the chalazion, as this can increase the risk of developing an eye infection. However, there are several safe ways to speed up the healing process.

Warm compresses

Applying a warm compress to the affected eye helps to effectively open the drain, which can relieve irritation. To make a warm compress:

• Soak a soft, clean cloth or cotton pad in warm water;
• Squeeze out excess liquid;
• Apply a damp cloth to the eyelid for 10-15 minutes;
• Continue moistening the compress to keep it warm.

Gentle massage

Gently massaging the eyelids for a few minutes every day can help drain the canals effectively. Before doing this, make sure your hands are clean to reduce the risk of infection.

Drugs

A number of over-the-counter drugs can help treat chalazion or stye. They can reduce irritation, prevent infection, and speed up the healing process. Some of these remedies include ointments, solutions, and medicated eye pads.

To avoid further discomfort or irritation, it is best not to wear eye makeup or contact lenses until the chalazion has passed.

When to see a doctor

See an ophthalmologist or optometrist if the chalazion does not heal within 1 month. The doctor will ask about symptoms and examine the area to rule out other medical conditions. He may also prescribe anti-inflammatory eye drops or ointments to speed up the healing process. The doctor may prescribe hormonal injections to reduce swelling. This will depend on the location, size and number of chalazions present. If there are signs of a bacterial infection, your doctor may recommend a course of oral antibiotics.

If the chalazion is severe or persistent, your doctor may recommend surgery to drain it. This usually takes place in the doctor’s office under local anesthesia. Chalazion can sometimes recur. If this occurs, the doctor may need to take a biopsy.