What are the characteristics of a chalazion

A chalazion normally starts with a slight sensitivity to the touch on the eyelids. After one or two days, the chalazion localises to the body of the eyelid and develops into a small lump. In some instances, an eyelid may be extremely swollen, shutting the eye completely.

The chalazion normally drains within 2 to 8 weeks through the inner surface of the eyelid and is absorbed spontaneously. The size and location of the chalazion may sometimes touch the cornea, causing a slightly blurred vision, however, this too is nothing to worry about.

Treatment for chalazion

Home – A common home treatment for chalazion is warm compresses. Soak some cotton wool or cloth into hot water (but not hot enough to burn) and gently press the cloth onto your closed eyelid for a few minutes, two to three times daily.

You may also use eye cleansing pads or diluted baby shampoo for this. This home remedy may soften the hardened oils that block the duct, allowing the oil to drain and speed up the disappearance of the cyst. It is advised not to squeeze the chalazion.

An eye doctor may also prescribe antibiotic ointment or eye drops to ease any irritation you may be experiencing. An infection spreading from the cysts may be treated with oral antibiotics. These medications, however, do not work to make the cysts disappear.

Clinical – Should there be a large chalazion which does not respond to treatment, a doctor may suggest undergoing surgical incision, excision and curettage.

Hordeolum

Though looking similar to a chalazion, a hordeolum (stye) is an acute, localised swelling that is due to a pyogenic (staphylococcal) infection or abscess. It is usually indistinguishable from a chalazion in the initial stages but it often develops to be more painful.

External hordeola is usually a result of obstruction and infection of an eyelash follicle. In terms of appearance, a small yellowish pustule will likely develop at the base of the eyelash. This lesion will rupture in a few days, discharging material (pus), thus relieving any pain and resolving the lesion.

In the event that the external hordeolum does not respond to warm compresses, an eye expert may suggest incising the lump with a sharp, fine-tipped blade. Systemic antibiotics may be prescribed after the procedure.

Internal hordeolum, however, is rare and is a result of an infection of a meibomian gland, deeper inside the eyelid. Inflammation can sometimes be severe and patients may also experience fever or chills. Oral antibiotics, incision and drainage may be prescribed as a form of treatment.

Symptoms of a stye:

• Small spot of pus (similar to a pimple)
• Painful lump and may cause the whole eyelid to swell
• A sensation that something is inside the eye
• Watering/tearing
• Crustiness on the edge of the eyelid
• Sensitive to light

When to contact an eye specialist

Be sure to visit Eyecentric if you notice the lumps on your eyelid continue to get bigger despite treatment or if you notice an area on your eyelid with eyelash loss.

At Eyecentric at Bukit Tinggi Medical Centre (BTMC), you are under the great care of fully-trained eye professionals who are experienced in various eye conditions. Our ophthalmologists and eye surgeons are on hand to guide you through your concerns and offer the best advice to maintain your vision.