Chalazion: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

A firm lump on the eyelid is a common reason to see an ophthalmologist. Many patients assume they have a stye, but such a lump is not always caused by an acute infection. One of the most common causes is a chalazion, a chronic inflammation that develops when the meibomian glands stop working properly.

In the early stages the condition may cause little trouble. A small lump does not cause significant pain, so many people put off seeing a doctor. Over time, however, the lump can grow, cause discomfort and even affect the quality of vision. That is why it is important to understand what a chalazion is, why it develops and which treatments are considered most effective.

What is a chalazion

The meibomian glands are located within the eyelids and produce an oily secretion that is part of the tear film. Thanks to this secretion, the surface of the eye stays moist and tears do not evaporate too quickly.

When the duct of a gland becomes blocked, the secretion can no longer drain normally and starts to build up inside. Gradually a dense capsule forms around it, creating a characteristic nodule.

This condition is called a chalazion. In simple terms, a chalazion is a well-defined lump within the eyelid that forms when a meibomian gland becomes blocked and chronic inflammation follows.

Unlike a stye, which usually involves an acute infection, a chalazion on the eyelid develops gradually and often lasts a long time.

Why a chalazion develops

The condition is linked to a disruption in the normal function of the eyelid glands. However, the blockage itself rarely occurs without a reason.

The main causes of a chalazion include:

• chronic inflammation of the eyelid margins;
• repeated episodes of styes;
• increased production of skin oil;
• demodicosis;
• seborrheic dermatitis;
• dry eye syndrome;
• weakened immune defenses;
• endocrine disorders.

When looking at the causes of a chalazion, doctors also consider the condition of the patient's skin and any chronic diseases that may contribute to blocked glands.

In some cases the condition develops after an eyelid inflammation, when the gland duct remains partially blocked even after the acute phase is over.

Chalazion as an eye condition: how it develops

A chalazion develops gradually. At first a person notices a small firm spot inside the eyelid. It usually does not cause much pain, so patients often ignore the problem.

As the secretion builds up, the lump grows and becomes more noticeable. Sometimes the skin over it turns slightly red, and if an infection sets in, additional inflammation may develop.

Without treatment, the nodule can persist for many months.

What a chalazion on the eye looks like

A chalazion on the eye most often looks like a round lump located within the eyelid. Its size can vary considerably, from a small firm spot to a fairly large nodule that other people can see.

During an examination the doctor usually finds:

• a firm round lump;
• localized thickening of the eyelid;
• moderate tissue swelling;
• redness if there is inflammation.

A large chalazion sometimes presses on the cornea, causing a temporary decrease in the sharpness of vision.

Symptoms of a chalazion

The symptoms depend on the stage of the condition and the size of the lump.

The most typical symptoms are:

• a lump in the eyelid;
• a foreign-body sensation;
• a feeling of heaviness when blinking;
• localized swelling;
• discomfort in the eye;
• watery eyes;
• increased tenderness of the eyelid.

If an inflammatory reaction develops, there may be tenderness, redness and local warmth of the tissues.

Some patients notice that a chalazion interferes with normal vision, especially if the lump becomes large.

How a chalazion differs from a stye

Although they look similar, these conditions have different origins.

A stye is an acute bacterial inflammation that is usually accompanied by pain and the formation of a pus-filled spot. A chalazion develops when a gland becomes blocked and a chronic area of inflammation forms.

The main distinguishing features of a chalazion:

• gradual development;
• no pronounced pus formation;
• a firmer texture;
• a long-lasting course;
• less pain.

That is why self-diagnosis is not always accurate, and a specialist consultation is needed.

Chalazion on the eye: treatment without surgery

In the early stages, non-surgical treatment is possible.

If a small chalazion on the eye is found, treatment may include:

• warm compresses;
• eyelid hygiene;
• special massage techniques;
• anti-inflammatory medicines;
• medication prescribed by a doctor.

During treatment, it is important to follow all of the specialist's recommendations. Using medicines on your own or trying to squeeze the lump can lead to complications.

Treating a chalazion with medication

Non-surgical treatment aims to reduce inflammation and reopen the blocked gland.

Modern treatment of a chalazion may include:

• anti-inflammatory medicines;
• antibacterial medicines if there is an infection;
• topical medications;
• injection therapy.

The treatment approach is chosen individually after an examination and assessment of the eyelid.

Chalazion: treatment methods in modern ophthalmology

The choice of approach depends on the size of the lump, how long the condition has lasted and how well previous treatment has worked.

The main treatment methods include:

• observation;
• medication;
• injections of medication into the lump;
• surgery.

The sooner a patient seeks medical help, the more likely it is that surgery can be avoided.

When chalazion removal is needed

If the lump does not shrink or keeps growing, the doctor may recommend chalazion removal.

Reasons for surgery include:

• no improvement with non-surgical treatment;
• a large lump;
• frequent inflammation;
• a cosmetic defect;
• pressure on the cornea;
• worsening vision.

In such situations, surgery removes the source of the problem and prevents the condition from progressing further.

Surgical removal of a chalazion

Surgical removal of a chalazion is considered the most reliable way to treat large lumps.

The procedure is performed under local anesthesia and takes relatively little time. During the procedure, the surgeon removes the contents and the capsule of the lump, which reduces the chance of it coming back.

After the procedure, the patient receives advice on eye care and the use of medications.

Removal of a chalazion from the upper eyelid

The lump most often develops in the upper eyelid, because it contains a large number of meibomian glands.

If the nodule is large or causes significant discomfort, removal of the upper eyelid chalazion is performed. After healing, the eyelid's function is fully restored.

Removal of a chalazion from the lower eyelid

A chalazion on the lower eyelid is just as common.

In such cases, removal of the lower eyelid chalazion is performed taking into account the location of the lump and the patient's individual anatomy. Modern surgical techniques minimize tissue damage and shorten the recovery period.

Are complications possible

Although the condition is benign, a chalazion that persists for a long time can lead to certain consequences.

The most likely complications include:

• chronic inflammation;
• eyelid deformity;
• the nodule forming again;
• infection of the contents;
• pressure on the cornea;
• a temporary decrease in the quality of vision.

That is why it is not advisable to delay treatment.

How to reduce the risk of a chalazion

Preventing the condition largely depends on proper eye care and timely treatment of inflammation.

To reduce the risk, specialists advise:

• maintaining eyelid hygiene;
• treating blepharitis and styes;
• keeping dry eye syndrome under control;
• supporting your immune system;
• using contact lenses correctly;
• having regular check-ups with an ophthalmologist.

Following these recommendations is especially important for people who have had this condition before.

Conclusion

A chalazion on the eye is a chronic inflammatory lump that forms when a meibomian gland becomes blocked. Although it is usually benign, the condition can cause discomfort, cosmetic changes and vision problems. Understanding the causes of a chalazion helps you seek medical care in time. Modern treatments make it possible to treat the condition effectively and, if necessary, remove the chalazion with minimal risk of complications and recurrence.