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Chalazion

Authors:
  • Rick Alan
Publication Type:

Condition

Chalazion

Definition

A chalazion is a non-infectious, hard lump that forms on the eyelid.

Chalazion.

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Causes

A chalazion can form when the oil made from a gland of the eyelid thickens and can no longer flow. When the oil hardens, it blocks the gland and causes a lump to form in the eyelid. This can happen more than once in a person's life.

Risk Factors

Things that may raise the chance of a chalazion are:

Symptoms

The first symptom is a small swelling on the eyelid. It may look like a stye. It may or may not be painful. After a few days, the lump on the eyelid often begins to harden.

A chalazion can rarely cause problems, which may include:

  • An infection at the site of the chalazion (stye)
  • Vision problems due to the chalazion pushing against and distorting the shape of the eye

Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about symptoms and medical history. An eye exam will be done. Rarely, a sample of fluid from the chalazion is taken and tested in a lab.

Treatment

A chalazion will often go away on its own. If needed, treatment may include:

Prevention

Eyelid hygiene can help prevent a chalazion:

  • Always wash your hands before touching the eyes.
  • Always use a clean facecloth for face washing.
  • Wash eyelids with warm water and mild soap.
  • Never squeeze or poke the eye.
  • Do not rub the eye.
  • Make sure contacts are clean before putting them in.
RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

CANADIAN RESOURCES:

References

  • Chalazion. American Optometric Association website. Available at: http://www.aoa.org/patients-and-public/eye-and-vision-problems/glossary-of-eye-and-vision-conditions/chalazion?sso=y.
  • Chalazion. EBSCO DynaMed website. Available at: https://www.dynamed.com/condition/chalazion.
  • What are chalazia and styes? American Academy of Ophthalmology Eye Smart website. Available at: http://www.geteyesmart.org/eyesmart/diseases/chalazion-stye/index.cfm.
Last Updated:
2023-06-01

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This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.