Chalazion (Lump in Eyelid)

Eye Diseases and Conditions Slideshow

• 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
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• Synonyms and Keywords
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Chalazion Overview

A chalazion is a lump of the lid that is caused by obstruction of an oil gland within the upper or lower eyelid. This lump may increase in size over days to weeks and may occasionally become red, warm, or painful.

The gland involved in the formation of a chalazion is a modified oil gland that lies within the eyelid. There are about 40 of these glands within each of the upper and lower lids. These glands secrete oil into the tears. When one of these glands becomes blocked, it can increase in size and cause a visible lump.

Although a sty is also a lump in the eyelid caused by obstruction of an oil gland, a chalazion is not a sty. A sty, or hordeolum, represents an acute infection of the gland. A chalazion is not an infection but is an inflammation of the area. Inflammation is a process in which the body reacts to a condition and produces a swelling, redness, pain, or warmth. A sty is usually more painful than a chalazion and may look infected.