Eyelid Lump (Chalazion)

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KEY POINTS

• A chalazion is a small lump in your eyelid that happens when one of the small oil glands near your eyelashes gets blocked.
• Your provider may want you to clean your eyelids regularly using a warm wet washcloth. If this does not relieve your symptoms, your provider may prescribe medicines in the form of eyedrops, ointment, pills, or shots.

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What is a chalazion?

A chalazion is a small lump in your eyelid.

What is the cause?

A chalazion happens when one of the small oil glands near your eyelashes gets blocked. You may be more likely to get a chalazion if you have:

• A skin problem like acne or rosacea
• A long term health problem like diabetes or high cholesterol
• An eye problem like blepharitis, which is redness and swelling of the edges of your eyelids

A chalazion looks similar to a stye, which is a lump at the edge of an eyelid caused by an infection.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms may include:

• A red lump in your eyelid
• Pain near the lump
• Swelling of part or all of your eyelid
• A feeling that something is in your eye

How is it diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and activities and examine your eyes. He or she may also examine your scalp. A sample of the fluid from around the lump may be sent to a lab to check for bacteria.

How is it treated?

Your provider may want you to clean your eyelids regularly using a warm wet washcloth. Follow your provider's instructions carefully.

If using a warm, wet washcloth on the closed eyelid does not relieve your symptoms, your provider may prescribe medicines in the form of eye drops, ointment, pills, or shots.

Usually the symptoms are gone in a few weeks. If the chalazion is not gone after a month, it may need to be removed with surgery.

How can I take care of myself?

You may need to follow a cleansing routine for several weeks or months:

• Moisten a washcloth with warm water and hold it over both eyes for several minutes. The water and steam will help to soften any buildup of dirt or skin cells on your eyelids. A gentle massage on your eyelids with the washcloth can help remove the buildup.
• Add a few drops of baby shampoo to a cup of water. Moisten a cotton swab with this mixture. Using the swab, clean all the deposits from the edges of your eyelids and eyelashes. Use a new swab for each eye. Do not let the swab touch your eyeball.

How can I help prevent a chalazion?

You may be able to help prevent chalazions from forming or coming back by using warm moist heat and, in severe cases, medicines. Ask your provider if these treatments might work for you.