 Health Care Services Hospitals & Facilities Health Information Find a Doctor Why Choose Baptist |
Chalazion
|
Health Library Topics
|
|
|
|
A chalazion is a small lump in the eyelid. It is similar to
a stye, which is an infection of the edge of the eyelid
caused by bacteria. However, a chalazion is away from the
edge and is usually not caused by bacteria. How does it occur? A chalazion occurs when one of the small oil-producing glands in the eyelid becomes blocked. Oil secretions may become trapped and cause the lid to swell. The site of the lump may become infected by bacteria. What are the symptoms? Symptoms may include:
How is it diagnosed? Your doctor will examine your eye. He or she may send a sample of the tissue or fluid from around the lump to a lab to determine if bacteria are present or if the lump occurs for other reasons, such as cancer. Be sure that you tell your doctor if you have any changes in your vision. How is it treated? Sometimes a chalazion will go away without treatment. Usually, you will need to apply hot compresses to the closed eyelid. A compress is a clean washcloth moistened with hot water. You may need to apply hot compresses for at least 10 to 15 minutes at a time, 3 to 4 times a day, for several days. The moist heat helps to reduce inflammation and may help remove the plug that is blocking the oil gland. If compresses do not relieve your symptoms, your doctor may prescribe steroids in the form of eyedrops or shots into the lump. Other treatment may include antibiotics in the form of eyedrops, ointment, pills, or shots. If the chalazion is still present after 6 weeks, an ophthalmologist (a medical eye doctor) may need to remove the lump during minor surgery. The surgery is generally safe and effective. How long will the effects last? Usually the symptoms are gone in 6 weeks. Some people have chalazions frequently and may need to take medicine all the time. How can it be prevented? You may be able to help prevent chalazions from recurring by using warm compresses and, in severe cases, medicines such as doxycycline. Reviewed and approved by the Wilmer Eye Institute of The Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, Baltimore, MD. Web site: http://www.wilmer.jhu.edu  Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a
replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
HIA File eye4213.HTM Release 9.0/2006. Copyright © 2006 McKesson Corporation and/or one of its subdiaries. All Rights Reserved.
 Top of Page |
Baptist Online Read the latest articles about a variety of health subjects, with many practical tips to help you take control of your health.  More
|
| Home | Health Care Services | Hospitals & Facilities | Health Information | Find a Doctor | Why Choose Baptist |
| ©2009 Baptist Memorial Health Care Corporation. All Rights Reserved. Disclaimer. Notice of Privacy Practices. | |
 |
In keeping with the three-fold ministry of Christ — healing, preaching and teaching — Baptist Memorial Health Care Corporation is committed to providing quality health care. |