Chalazion: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

A chalazion is a common eye condition that affects people of all ages. It is a small, painless lump that develops on the eyelid due to a blocked oil gland. While it is not usually serious, it can cause discomfort and affect vision if left untreated. In this blog, we will explore the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for chalazion.

Causes:

A chalazion occurs when one of the small oil glands in the eyelid becomes blocked. This can be due to a variety of reasons, including:

• Poor hygiene
• Hormonal changes
• Skin conditions such as rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis
• Blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid)
• Meibomian gland dysfunction (a condition where the oil glands in the eyelids don't produce enough oil)

Symptoms:

The most common symptoms of chalazion include:

• A small, painless lump on the eyelid
• Swelling and redness around the affected area
• Tenderness or sensitivity to touch
• Blurred vision if the lump is large enough to affect the cornea

Treatment:

In most cases, a chalazion will go away on its own within a few weeks to a few months. However, there are several treatment options that can help speed up the healing process and relieve symptoms. These include:

• Warm compresses: Applying a warm compress to the affected area several times a day can help to soften the lump and promote drainage of the blocked gland.
• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to relieve any pain or discomfort associated with the chalazion. In some cases, a doctor may also prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointments to help prevent infection.
• Surgery: If the chalazion is large or does not go away on its own, a doctor may recommend surgery to remove it. This is usually done under local anesthesia and involves making a small incision in the eyelid to drain the blocked gland.

Conclusion:

Chalazion is a common eye condition that can cause discomfort and affect vision if left untreated. While it is not usually serious, it is important to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms. With the right treatment, most people are able to recover fully from chalazion and prevent it from recurring in the future.

References:

1. American Academy of Ophthalmology. (2020). Chalazion (Meibomian Gland Lipogranuloma). Retrieved from https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/chalazion-1
2. Mayo Clinic. (2021). Chalazion. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/chalazion/symptoms-causes/syc-20354337
3. National Eye Institute. (2019). Chalazion. Retrieved from https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/chalazion

Dr. Zeyad Zaben

Optometrist, Spain