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Chalazion eye is a specific syndrome where the eyelid contains small glands churning out an oily material that helps in moistening the eyes. Whenever there is any blockage in any of these tiny glands, then you may witness what is known as the chalazion eye syndrome, indicating a completely pain-free and swollen gland. This can be treated at home in most cases.
Learning More About Chalazion
Chalazion indicates a red eyelid bump. It is also known as an eyelid or meibomian cyst at times, forming whenever there is any blockage in the oil gland. Chalazion eye is usually painful at the beginning but it does not hurt after the passage of some time. The formation mostly happens on the upper eyelid portion but some may be witnessed on the lower eyelid as well. This usually takes place for adults between 30 and 50 in some cases and is not common for children.
Chalazion is different from a stye although it may develop owing to the latter. By a stye we mean bacterial infections of a specific nature where the glands swell up considerably. However, they can be quite painful in most cases. Chalazion usually is not painful and shows up farther on the eyelid.Â
Causes & Symptoms of Chalazion
There are numerous Chalazion causes including blockages of smaller oil glands within the eyelid which help in maintaining the moistness of the same. Blocked glands start retention of oil and swell up. The fluid will drain out ultimately and you may witness a hard eyelid lump as a result. Some other causes include chronic blepharitis or eyelid inflammation along with rosacea (leading to acne and redness), seborrheic dermatitis and tuberculosis (TB) and viral infections.
Some of the symptoms include painless bumps in the eyelids, mild forms of irritation which lead to watery eyes and blurry vision owing to bigger chalazia (the plural form) which impact the eyelid as well.Â
Testing and Diagnosis of Chalazion
Eye specialists are usually conducted in case of chalazion while ophthalmologists or optometrists are also consulted at times. These doctors may analyze the condition and offer more choices for treatments.Â
Whenever you visit the specialist, you will have to inform him or her about your health history, while going in for an external eye examination or eyelid examination. Your eyes, eyelids, eyelashes and texture of the skin will be closely analyzed. Magnification and lights may be used by specialists for examining the base of the eyelashes as well. The openings of the glands are also checked by them. Â
Treatment and Other Aspects of Chalazion
You can undergo chalazion treatment at home in most scenarios. They usually disappear within a month or even less time. You should never push on the chalazion or attempt to pop the same. The doctor may also recommend cleansing of the eyelids with a baby shampoo or scrub, particularly if there are chances of blepharitis.Â
You may end up injuring your eye in such scenarios. Rather, you should try the following:Â
1. Massages
You should gently massage your eyelids a few times every day. Massage for some minutes on a daily basis, using medium or light pressure. A gentle and careful massage may help in opening up the oil gland which is blocked.Â
2. Warm Compresses
You should wet your washcloth with the help of warm water. Hold on the eye which is affected for roughly fifteen minutes. You should do this for a minimum of three times each day to enable the opening of the oil gland which is blocked.Â
3. Maintaining Good Hygiene
You should avoid using eye makeup while grappling with a chalazion. After it drains out neatly, keep the entire zone cleaner. Follow proper practices for eye health and do not touch the eyes at all.Â
4. Discard Old Eye Make–up
Never use any makeup that has expired or is particularly old. Also replace the eye shadow and mascara at least once in every two months. Do not share any other individual’s makeup or use the same.Â
The Bottom Line
You should consult your eye doctor in case you find the chalazion still present. It may require drainage of fluid via a tiny incision. A steroid injection may also be needed for lowering inflammation and swelling levels as well.Â
FAQs
Can I combat/prevent a chalazion?
You may be able to prevent a chalazion from occurring through better hygiene practices. Some key aspects include frequent hand-washing, especially before touching the eyes and also caring for the contact lenses. Ensure that your lenses are cleaned with the solution and disinfectant before wearing them. Use contacts strictly on the basis of their recommended schedule. You can also wash your face daily for the removal of makeup and dirt prior to bedtime.
How long does a chalazion stay?Â
With suitable treatment methods and management of the condition, chalazion may heal within a week itself. If it is not treated in a timely manner, then it may require at least 4-6 weeks for healing.Â
Will chalazion keep recurring?Â
One chalazion may lead to another one as well. You should always emphasize proper hygiene and habits in order to combat future ones. Hand-washing is especially important in this case.Â
When should you consult a doctor?Â
If you are seeing a chalazion which is not going away at all, even with treatment at home, then you should immediately reach out to your eye doctor. He or she will closely analyze your eyes and offer the best options for any added treatments. If you have recurrent chalazia, then you should visit your doctor as well.Â
