New Eyelid Bump? It Could Be a Chalazion
If you've noticed a new bump on your eyelid, it may be more than a minor irritation. That's when you need to call in the experts. With 150 years serving the Chicago area, Millennium Park Eye Center is a trusted name for eye care of all types. Our experienced team of ophthalmologists and optometrists often sees patients with these common eyelid masses, called chalazia (a single one is called a chalazion). These bumps can cause discomfort and swelling and sometimes even affect your vision, so it's important to get help when it happens.
What Is a Chalazion?
A chalazion is a bump on the upper eyelid (or, rarely, on the lower lid). This bump can develop when one of the oil glands in the eyelid (the meibomian glands) is blocked.
Chalazia usually occur in adults in their 30s, 40s, or 50s. However, they can affect younger and older people as well.
Symptoms of a Chalazion to Watch For
A chalazion may cause symptoms including:
- A lump or mass on the eyelid
- Redness or swelling in the affected area
- Tenderness, particularly in the early stages (often painless later)
- Tearing if the chalazion becomes large
As the chalazion grows, it may even cause vision problems. But the good news is that many chalazia resolve independently with minimal treatment. If you notice any of these symptoms, contact us for immediate relief. We can fix the problem early and prevent further discomfort.
A stye and chalazion can have similar symptoms, but a stye is generally far more painful. Treatment approaches for the two types of bumps are typically similar as well.
Treatment Options for a Chalazion
A chalazion may resolve with simple remedies like applying a warm compress several times daily. The heat helps unblock the meibomian gland so the oil can drain.
If the chalazion doesn't improve with conservative care, you could need eye drops, ointments, or a steroid injection to reduce inflammation.
In severe cases, your Millennium Park Eye Center doctor may need to perform an in-office drainage or excision for permanent chalazion relief.
Chalazion Help in Chicago
Are you dealing with a chalazion? By acting now, you can stop the discomfort and prevent the bump from growing. Our team at Millennium Park Eye Center is here to help. Call us today at 312-996-2020 to schedule a consultation and find the best treatment.