Chalazion and Styes
If you are seeking chalazion or stye treatment in Cincinnati or northern Kentucky, we can help. The eye doctors at Cincinnati Eye Institute are leading experts in a range of eye conditions. Our specialists have experience in diagnosing and treating chalazions and styes.
What is the Difference between a Chalazion and a Stye?
Styes and chalazia are both bumps that occur around the eye, usually along the edge of the eyelid. Your eye has oil glands called Meibomian glands that help to keep the eye lubricated. When one of these glands becomes clogged, it causes a lump called a chalazion. A stye is also an eyelid bump, but it is usually caused by a bacterial infection, while chalazions are non-infectious bumps.1 Chalazions may be larger, but they are not usually painful. Styes often cause discomfort or tenderness. People with certain eye conditions, such as blepharitis, may be more likely to get styes and chalazions.2
Symptoms of Chalazion
- A swollen bump or lump in the upper or lower eyelid
- Watery eyes
- If it is large, a chalazion may cause blurry or distorted vision
Chalazion Treatment
A chalazion will often resolve without any treatment, although it can take several months. Treatment options for chalazion include:
- Warm compresses applied four times a day for 10 to 15 minutes each time
- Antibiotic ointment
- Steroid injection
- Surgical drainage
While older children and adults may undergo the surgical drainage procedure in a doctor’s office under local anesthesia, general anesthesia is usually recommended for a chalazion removal in young children. If a chalazion recurs in the same place, a tissue biopsy may be conducted in order to rule out a more serious issue.
Symptoms of a Stye
- An eyelid bump near the lashes that may be red
- Pain and tenderness
- Inflammation
- Watery eyes
Stye Treatment
- Warm compresses
- Antibiotic medication
- Surgical drainage
Tips to Prevent Styes and Chalazia
Styes and chalazia are very common, but there are some steps you can take to help prevent them:
- Wash your hands often and thoroughly: Good hand washing can prevent spreading bacteria to your eyes.
- Be careful with contact lenses: If you wear contacts, it is important to disinfect them as directed and wash your hands before handling them.
- Practice good cosmetic hygiene: if you wear eye makeup, make sure to thoroughly remove it before sleeping. Don’t share eye makeup with others and toss any expired cosmetics.
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Contact Cincinnati Eye Institute
Do you have questions about styes, chalazia, or other eye conditions? Our experts are here to help. Contact us to learn more or schedule a consultation appointment.
The doctors at Cincinnati Eye Institute have either authored or reviewed the content on this site.