Whakawaikuratanga Chalazion (meibomian cyst)

A chalazion is different from a stye, which is caused by bacterial infection of the gland at the base of an eyelash. Styes are usually smaller, more painful and closer to the surface of the eyelid.

You are more likely to get a chalazion if you:

• have had one before
• touch your eyelids when your hands are not clean
• have had inflamed eyelids and eyelashes (blepharitis) for a long time
• have a skin condition like acne, rosacea or seborrhoeic dermatitis.

At first, a chalazion is a red, tender and swollen area.

In a few days it changes to a painless, slow-growing lump. The lump starts very small but can grow to the size of a pea. Your eye may water more.

A large chalazion that presses against your eye can cause blurred vision and discomfort.

The gland with the lump may break open and release the oil into the surrounding tissue. This can cause redness and swelling of your eyelid.

Often a chalazion will go away after about a month, without any treatment.

To soften the oil in the chalazion and help it drain away:

• put a clean, warm compress on your eyelid 4 to 6 times a day, for about 10 minutes at a time
• gently massage the lump with clean hands, for several minutes each day. 

Do not try to squeeze or drain the chalazion yourself.

If it keeps getting bigger or does not go away, see your healthcare provider to get it checked.

If the chalazion causes an ongoing problem, you may need minor surgery to have it removed.

Gently cleaning the eyelash edge of your eyelids each night can help prevent a chalazion. Use eye cleansing pads or diluted baby shampoo.

You can also put a warm compress on your eyelids for a few minutes each night before bed. Remember to keep your hands clean.