Chalazion 101: Top FAQs

The skin around the eyes is filled with hair follicles and oil glands. Therefore, there is a lot of potential for something to go awry that causes a need for an eye exam in Weston, FL. A chalazion is a common issue that affects a lot of people, even though many people don’t know what is wrong when one of these bumps show up.

What exactly is a chalazion?

A chalazion is a lump that develops on the upper or lower eyelid. These are sometimes referred to as eyelid cysts, but regardless of the name, these bumps are caused by a blocked oil gland. The oil gland becomes blocked, so it fills with a collection of dead skin cells and oil. The bump may start out painless, but it can also become infected. An infected chalazion may cause redness, swelling, and pain in the eyelid.

What causes repeated problems with chalazion?

A recurrent chalazion can be rooted in a few different causes. Most people who get a chalazion have a tendency to rub their eyes. Sometimes, recurrent problems may also be related to things like hormonal changes and even stress. Keeping the eyelids clean may also help deter recurrent chalazion, especially if you wear a lot of eye makeup.

Can you get rid of a chalazion on your own?

It may be possible to get rid of chalazia on your own, and sometimes the bumps will simply go away without any treatment at all. If you start to notice a bump developing, there are a few things that you can try, such as:

• Gently massaging the area a few times a day with clean hands
• Using warm compresses to apply gentle pressure to the bump for a few minutes
• Avoiding eye makeup and keeping the area really clean

Talk to a Weston, FL Eye Doctor for Help

If you have issues with chalazia on a regular basis, it is always a good idea to visit a Weston eye doctor for advice. While a chalazion does not usually pose any major threat to your visual health, the bump can grow large enough to get into your field of vision. Reach out to us at Rouse Family Eyecare to schedule an appointment.