What is a Chalazion?

A chalazion occurs when a small oil gland in the eyelid becomes blocked. The secretions from the gland leak out into the surrounding eyelid tissue and cause redness and inflammation.

Some common symptoms of a chalazion are:

• a lump on the eyelid
• swelling of the eyelid
• soreness or discomfort
• redness
• blurry vision
• a droopy eyelid

Certain conditions can make you more likely to get a chalazion. These are blepharitis and rosacea. Very rarely a skin cancer on the eyelid can cause a chalazion to form.

At the first signs of a chalazion developing, the most important thing to do is begin warm compresses to the effected area 4-5 times a day. This will help open up the blocked gland and also help the body to heal the surrounding inflamed tissue.

If the warm compresses do not help, then it is important to come in to the office to be evaluated. Topical medication, oral antibiotics, injections into the area and possible surgical drainage may be necessary.

After I treat your chalazion, I will evaluate your eyelids for the associated conditions, belpharitis and rosacea, and suggest some easy ways to prevent recurrence. Learn more about Chalazion

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