WHAT IS A CHALAZION?This is a swelling of a sebaceous gland (meibomian gland) in the eyelid.CAUSEWhen the duct becomes blocked, the sebum can no longer flow out and accumulates in the gland. This is a sterile inflammation that can sometimes be accompanied by a bacterial infection.PHENOMENAAt some point, a painful swelling develops just above or below the eyelid margin, rather than in the eyelid margin as with a stye (hordeolum). The entire eyelid can become red and swollen in a short time.
DIAGNOSISBy folding the eyelid, the ophthalmologist can see whether a chalazion or a hordeolum is present using the slit lamp.TREATMENTA developing chalazion is best treated with warm compresses. Apply a clean tissue soaked in hot water (as long as the skin around your elbow can tolerate it) to the affected eyelid for 15 minutes twice a day.
A secondary infection can be treated with antibiotic and possibly corticosteroid eye drops.
The swollen gland can be expressed as long as possible. If this is not possible, the chalazion is removed through an incision in the eyelid under local anesthesia. Your ophthalmologist will advise you on the most appropriate treatment for your situation.
A chalazion can be a one-time occurrence, but it is also possible for a new chalazion to develop elsewhere in the eyelid. This will then be treated as described above. |
