It looks like a pimple on the eyelid, and can happen to anyone at any age. A chalazion (plural: chalazia) is caused by blockage of a meibomian (oil) gland, which ruptures and releases lipid into the eyelid tissue. Over the course of a few weeks or months, an inflammatory reaction produces a bump on the eyelid (upper or lower). It may clear up spontaneously over a few months, but many patients prefer to get treatment.
Styes are similar to chalazia, but caused by a bacterial infection at the root of an eyelash. Styes usually grow for about 3 days and may clear up in a week. Chalazia tend to be larger and grow more slowly, forming a firm lump or cyst in the eyelid. Some may interfere with vision.
Conservative treatment works for mild cases of both chalazia and styes. This includes warm compresses for 3 – 5 minutes, up to 6 times per day. Antibiotic ointment for the eyes may be prescribed. No eye makeup or contact lenses should be worn until the eyelid is completely healed. Reference 1 recommends gentle massage to assist in releasing the contents of a chalazion, but Reference 2 cautions against squeezing or opening it.
If conservative treatment does not produce good results, then a steroid injection into the chalazion may be helpful. If this does not work either, then a doctor can perform curetting or excision. This is a minor surgical procedure which some primary care physicians will do.
Prevention of chalazia and styes includes treating our eyes gently. Some recommendations are:
1. Don't rub your eyes;
2. Wash your hands before touching your eyes;
3. Replace mascara at least every 3 to 6 months. Bacteria can grow in mascara containers;
4. Wear safety glasses for yard work and anywhere that dust, dirt or other irritants may get in your eyes; and
5. Shampoo your eyelashes with baby shampoo daily. I do this in the shower every morning.
You can see photos of chalazia and styes on many websites. Beware: some of these look very disturbing to me! But with prompt treatment, these eye conditions can be cured easily.
References:
1. Gilchrist H, “Management of chalazia in general practice”, Australian Family Physician 2009 May; 38(5): 311-14.
2. http://www.webmd.com/eye-health/tc/styes-and-chalazia-topic-overview
Linda Fugate is a scientist and writer in Austin, Texas. She has a Ph.D. in Physics and an M.S. in Macromolecular Science and Engineering. Her background includes academic and industrial research in materials science. She currently writes song lyrics and health articles.