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 include 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 affected 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 into the office for an evaluation. 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—blepharitis and rosacea—and suggest some easy ways to prevent recurrence. Learn more about Chalazion
Call us at (212) 832-5456, or request online that we call you back by submitting our online request form here.
