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Chalazion
The term chalazion (ke-lay-zee-un) comes from a Greek word
meaning a small lump. It refers to a swelling in the eyelid
caused by inflammation of one of the small oil producing
glands (meibomian glands) located in the upper and lower
eyelids.
A chalazion is sometimes confused with a stye which also
appears as a lump in the eyelid. A stye is an infection
of a lash follicle that forms a red, sore lump near the
edge of the eyelid.
A chalazion is an inflammatory reaction to trapped oil
secretions. It is not caused by bacteria, although the site
can become infected by bacteria as well.
Sometimes a chalazion can cause the entire eyelid to swell
suddenly, but usually there is a definite tender point.
Treatment
When a chalazion is small and without symptoms, it may
disappear on its own. If the chalazion is large, it may
cause blurred vision by distorting the shape of the eye.
| Chalazions are treated with any or a combination
of the following methods: |
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Warm compresses.
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Warm compresses can be applied by
holding a clean washcloth, soaked in hot water, against
the closed lid. Do this for five to ten minutes, three
or four times a day.
Repeatedly soak the washcloth in hot water to maintain
adequate heat. The majority of chalazions will disappear
within a week.
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Steroid injections
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Injections can be useful after soaks
have been tried and a small lump remains. |
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Surgical incision
or excision
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Bothersome chalazions which are unresponsive
to other treatments can be surgically drained after
active inflammation is reduced |
Chalazions usually respond well to treatment, although
some people are prone to recurrences. In the event of a
chalazion recurring in the same place, your eye care specialist
may recommend a biopsy to rule out a more serious complication.
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