Chalazion: A chalazion is a benign, painless bump or nodule inside the upper or lower eyelid. It is common and sometimes called a meibomian cyst or tarsal cyst. It may be soft and fluid-filled or firmer.
Many chalazia drain, resolving on their own, especially if you facilitate the process with periodic warm compresses and gentle massage of the eyelid, but a persistent chalazion requires treatment by an eye specialist.
Causes of a Chalazion
There are many little glands are located just under the inner surface of the eyelid, known as meibomian glands. These give an oily fluid called meibum to help lubricate the eye. If the gland becomes obstructed then the meibum cannot escape into the tears. It may expand into a lump (cyst) and leak into the eyelid tissue. This becomes inflamed. This is a firm, solid lump that remains for a long time. This lump is the chalazion.
Chalazia are more common in those with blepharitis and rosacea.
Symptoms of Chalazion
A chalazion usually appears as a painless lump or swelling on the upper or lower eyelid. Chalazia may occur in both eyes at the same time. Sometimes it causes mild pain or irritation, particularly if it has just started – this usually settles. Depending on the size and location of the chalazion, it may blur or block vision.
Although not as common, Rarely, it gets infected. It then becomes may be red, swollen, and painful if an infection is present.
Diagnosis of Chalazion
In most instances, an eye physician can diagnose this condition by taking a close look at the lump on the eyelid. Your physician will also ask about your symptoms & close eye examination
- Mark out for spreading lid cellulitis
- Check lids and conjunctiva with a white light
- The presence of a chalazion is confirmed
Treatment of Chalazion
Some chalazia can go away without treatment. If you are prone to developing chalazia, your physician can prescribe preventative regimens, such as cleaning eyelids, applying for medicine on your eyelid and also prescribing oral medication for underlying conditions.
Home care for Chalazion
First, do not try to squeeze the chalazion. You should apply a warm compress to the eyelid four times per day for about 7 minutes at a time. This can decrease the swelling. Make sure you wash your hands before you sweep the area. Your physician also tells you to smoothly massage the lump a few times per day.
Medication & Surgery for Chalazion
If the chalazion doesn’t go away with home treatment, your physician may recommend oral medicine for blepharitis and meibomian gland dysfunction is doxycycline. Sometimes tetracycline and minocycline, both are in the same drug family of antibiotics, are prescribed. However, doxycycline does to be better tolerated. your physician may recommend a corticosteroid injection or a surgical plan. Both the injection and the surgery are effective treatments for the chalazion. The choice of treatment depends on several different factors.
