$Unique_ID{BRK01046}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{What is the Treatment for Swelling in the Eyelid?}
$Subject{infection infections eyelid eyelids chalazion chalazions meibomian
glands gland infected topical antibiotic ointment ointments stye styes eye
eyes}
$Volume{A-21}
$Log{
Chalazion of the Eye*0010501.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What is the Treatment for Swelling in the Eyelid?


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QUESTION:  I have a large, ugly swelling in my eyelid.  When it first started
it looked just like a stye.  Although it doesn't hurt now, it keeps on
growing, looking worse all the time.  Should I see a doctor?  What is the
treatment for this problem?

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ANSWER:  It sounds to me like what you have is a chalazion, and you should
definitely seek medical treatment.  A chalazion occurs when one or more of the
tiny meibomian glands on in the eyelid become infected and blocked.  These
glands produce a waxy like substance that keep the edges of the eyelids
waterproof.  If this "stye" isn't treated or doesn't heal by itself, the
glands remain clogged, the mass continues to grow and becomes a chalazion.
     Initially, your doctor may suggest a treatment composed of hot compresses
and topical antibiotic ointments, but if the problem persists for more than
six weeks, some minor surgery is indicated.  An incision is carefully made on
the underside of the lid followed by a curettage, a surgical scraping or
cleaning of the all the contents of the mass, which now resembles a cyst.
Extreme care must be taken when incisions are made, and cleaning is performed
as any rough edges left after the procedure is finished could scrape and
irritate the cornea.  Once the mass has been removed, the lid rapidly heals
with no evidence of the chalazion remaining.  Although the procedure is a
delicate one, it can usually be performed in the doctor's office without any
time lost from work or expensive hospital charges.  The sooner you see your
doctor, the sooner you will be rid of the bumpy eyelid which is causing you
concern.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.