Chalazion (Lump in Eyelid)

• Chalazion Overview
• Chalazion Causes
• Chalazion Symptoms
• When to Seek Medical Care
• Questions to Ask the Doctor
• Exams and Tests
• Chalazion Treatment
• Self-Care at Home
• Medical Treatment
• Next Steps
• Outlook
• For More Information
• Web Links
• Multimedia
• Synonyms and Keywords
• Authors and Editors

Chalazion Overview

A chalazion is a lump in the eyelid that is caused by inflammation of a gland within the skin. Typically, this lump grows over days to weeks and is occasionally red, warm, or painful.

The gland involved in the formation of a chalazion is a modified sweat gland that lies within the eyelid. This gland produces oil. When this gland becomes blocked, it can rupture and the inflammation process begins.

• Inflammation is a process in which the body reacts to a condition and produces a biologic reaction. This reaction can cause swelling, redness, pain, or warmth.

• A chalazion is not a sty. A sty can resemble a chalazion in the sense that it is also a lump in the eyelid. However, a sty involves glands and eyelash hair follicles that are closer to the skin surface of the eyelid. In addition, a sty is usually more painful and looks infected.