MyMediktor - Chalazion

Very low urgency

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It is a cyst of the sebaceous glands in the eyelid that lubricate the eye. It appears more frequently in the upper lid.

When the outflow duct is obstructed, the oils produced accumulate and the lump/cyst appears.

If due to pressure inside the cyst, It breaks down, it causes redness, swelling and pain in the eyelid.

It generally cures itself, although it may take several months. It is advisable to apply warm compresses to soften the obstruction. Anti-inflammatory corticosteroids or surgical removal are sometimes indicated.

It is not an emergency but you should consult an ophthalmologist.

Bibliographic references

Chandak Ghosh. Tanya Ghosh. Eyelid lesions. UpToDate. Sep 24, 2015.
Ben Simon GJ, Huang L, Nakra T, et al. Intralesional triamcinolone acetonide injection for primary and recurrent chalazia: is it really effective? Ophthalmology 2005; 112:913.

Author

Dr. Sara Vitoria

Copyright

Symptoms

Eyelid lump

Hard lump on the eyelid

Painless lump on the eyelid

Lump on the inner side of the eyelid

Reddened eyelid

Symptoms to watch out for

Fever (temperature higher than 38 ºC)

Blurry vision

Symptom persistence for more than two weeks after the initial treatment

Self-care

Apply warm compresses 3 to 4 times a day for 10 to 15 minutes.

Massage to drain the lump.