Content
Chalazion consists of the inflammation of the Meibômio glands, which are sebaceous glands that are located near the roots of the lashes and that produce a fatty secretion. This inflammation results in the obstruction of the opening of these glands, leading to the appearance of cysts that can increase over time, compromising vision.
The treatment for chalazion is usually done with the use of hot compresses, but if the cyst does not disappear or increases in size, it is important to consult an ophthalmologist so that the possibility of removal through a small surgical procedure can be evaluated.
Main symptoms
The most common symptoms caused by chalazion in the eye are:
- Formation of a cyst or lump, which may increase in size
- Swelling of the eyelids;
- Pain in the eye;
- Eye irritation;
- Difficulty seeing and blurred vision;
- Tearing;
- Sensitivity to light.
After a few days, the pain and irritation can disappear, leaving only a painless lump on the eyelid that grows slowly during the first week, and can continue to grow, putting more and more pressure on the eyeball and can make the vision blurred.
What is the difference between chalazion and stye?
Chalazion causes little pain, heals in a few months and is not caused by bacteria, unlike the stye, which is characterized by inflammation of the Zeis and Mol glands, due to the presence of bacteria, and which causes a lot of pain and discomfort, in addition to healing in about 1 week.
Thus, it is important to go to the doctor as soon as the first symptoms appear in order to follow the appropriate treatment, since, in the case of sty, it may be necessary to take an antibiotic. Learn more about the sty.
What causes chalazion
Chalazion is caused by the blockage of glands located in the lower or upper eyelids and, therefore, it is more common to happen in people who have seborrhea, acne, rosacea, chronic blepharitis or who have recurrent conjunctivitis, for example. Know other causes of cyst in the eye.
How the treatment is done
Most chalazions heal on their own, disappearing without treatment in about 2 to 8 weeks. However, if hot compresses are applied 2 to 3 times a day for about 5 to 10 minutes, chalazion may disappear more quickly. But, it is important to always wash your hands well before touching the eye area.
If the chalazion continues to grow and does not disappear in the meantime, or if it causes changes in vision, you may have to resort to a minor surgery that consists of draining the chalazion. An injection with a corticosteroid can also be applied to the eye to help reduce inflammation.
Created by: Tua Saúde Editorial Team