Chalazion: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A chalazion occurs when an eyelid's oil gland gets blocked. While usually harmless, it may cause discomfort or affect vision. Understanding its causes, symptoms, and treatments helps in effective management.

What is Chalazion?

A chalazion is a small, painless bump or Eyelid swelling due to a blocked meibomian gland. These glands produce oil to keep the eyes lubricated.

When they get clogged, oil accumulates, leading to inflammation and a cyst-like bump. Unlike a stye, which is usually caused by an infection, a chalazion is not painful and often resolves on its own.

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Causes of Chalazion

A chalazion develops when oil-producing glands in the eyelids become clogged. Common causes and risk factors include:

Poor eyelid hygiene
Chronic blepharitis (eyelid inflammation)
Skin conditions like rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis
Frequent eye rubbing or touching.
Meibomian gland dysfunction
A history of previous Chalazia

Symptoms of Chalazion

A chalazion may show the following symptoms:

A painless bump or enlargement on the eyelid.
Mild tenderness if inflammation is present
Redness or swelling of the eyelid
Blurred vision if a large chalazion presses against the eye.
Excessive tearing or eye irritation

Diagnosis of Chalazion

An eye specialist can diagnose a chalazion by examining the eyelid. The doctor will check for the following:

The presence of a lump
Signs of infection
Any underlying conditions that might be causing repeated chalazia

Treatment for Chalazion

Most chalazia resolve on their own without medical treatment. However, the following options can help speed up recovery:

Home Remedies

Warm Compress: Apply to the eyelid for 10–15 minutes multiple times daily to help unblock and drain.
Eyelid Massage: Gently massaging the area can help break down the oil buildup and encourage drainage.
Proper Eyelid Hygiene: Cleaning the eyelids with mild baby shampoo or eyelid wipes can prevent further blockages.

Medical Treatment

Antibiotics: A doctor may prescribe antibiotic drops or ointments if an infection is suspected.
Steroid Injections: A corticosteroid injection can help reduce inflammation in case of persistent swelling.
Surgical Drainage: If the chalazion does not go away with home treatment, an eye specialist may perform a minor surgical procedure to drain it.

Complications of Chalazion

Though chalazia are generally harmless, they can sometimes lead to complications such as:

Recurring Chalazion: Some individuals may develop chalazia frequently.
Infection: A bacterial infection can cause pain and increased swelling.
Vision Problems: If a chalazion becomes too large, it may press on the eye and blur vision.
Scarring: Repeated chalazion formation or improper treatment may lead to permanent eyelid scarring.

Chalazion vs Stye

Chalazion and stye are both eyelid conditions but differ in key aspects:

Feature	Chalazion	Stye
Cause	Blocked meibomian gland	Bacterial infection (often Staphylococcus)
Pain	Usually painless	Painful and tender
Appearance	Firm, non-red lump	Red, swollen lump with pus
Location	Inside the eyelid	Near the eyelash or on the edge of the eyelid
Treatment	Warm compress, hygiene, and sometimes drainage	Warm compress, antibiotic if infected

Prevention of Chalazion

To prevent chalazion formation, follow these simple steps:

Maintain good eyelid hygiene by regularly cleaning your eyelids.
Refrain from touching or rubbing your eyes with dirty hands.
Manage underlying conditions like blepharitis and rosacea.
Use warm compresses occasionally if you are prone to chalazia.

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When to See a Doctor?

You should consult an eye specialist if:

The lump keeps growing or remains for more than a few weeks.
You experience pain, excessive redness, or signs of infection.
Your vision gets affected due to the chalazion's size.

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Frequently Asked Questions

No, a chalazion is not contagious. Unlike a stye, it is caused by a blocked oil gland rather than an infection.

Most chalazia resolve within a few weeks to a few months with home care, such as warm compresses and eyelid hygiene.

A diet high in processed foods and low in essential nutrients may contribute to poor skin and eye health. Omega-3 fatty acids and proper hydration can help maintain healthy meibomian gland function.

Children can develop chalazia, especially with poor eyelid hygiene or blepharitis. It is important to encourage proper eye care habits.

Although rare, chalazia can develop in both eyes simultaneously, especially in individuals with chronic eyelid inflammation or poor hygiene habits.