A chalazion is a hard bump that forms on the eyelid.
A chalazion can form when the duct leading from the meibomian gland to the eyelid becomes blocked. This gland produces an oily substance that lubricates the margins of the eyelid and the front of the eye. When the duct becomes blocked, the secretions from the meibomian gland harden. This causes a chalazion to form near the edge of the eyelid. This condition can become chronic.
A risk factor is something that increases your chances of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for forming a chalazion include:
The initial symptom is a small swelling on the eyelid that often looks like a stye. It may or may not be painful. After a few days, the swelling on the eyelid often begins to:
A chalazion can cause complications, though not often. These include:
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and perform an eye exam. Rarely, a sample of fluid from the chalazion is taken and tested in a lab.
A chalazion will often disappear on its own. Treatment may include:
To help prevent a chalazion from forming, practice careful hygiene of your eye area. This includes:
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Family Physicians
http://www.aafp.org
American Academy of Ophthalmology
http://www.aao.org
National Eye Institute
http://www.nei.nih.gov
CANADIAN RESOURCES:
Canadian Association of Optometrists
http://www.opto.ca/en/public/
Canadian Health Network
http://www.canadian-health-network.ca/
References:
American Academy of Family Physicians website. Available at: http://www.aafp.org .
The Merck Manual of Medical Information . Simon and Schuster, Inc; 2000.
National Eye Institute website. Available at: http://www.nei.nih.gov .
Last reviewed November 2008 by Christopher Cheyer, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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