We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are the Different Types of Chalazion Treatment?

Autumn Rivers
By
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 17,001
Share

A chalazion is a large bump along the eyelid that often develops when an oil gland is blocked. Since it can grow so large that it may interfere with vision, it usually needs to be treated if it does not disappear on its own. Many patients can treat their chalazion from home, using warm compresses and gentle eye massages. If self-care does not work, it may be necessary to visit a doctor to get antibiotic eye drops or pills. Finally, in some extreme cases, chalazion treatment may include either piercing the lump or surgically removing it.

Most patients can perform their own chalazion treatment at home. This often includes applying a warm compress to the eye for roughly ten minutes, about four times per day. This not only usually decreases inflammation, but can also encourage it to drain on its own, allowing it to slowly deflate and disappear. Massaging the closed eyelid with clean hands can also help promote drainage. During this time, it is helpful to avoid wearing contacts or makeup when possible, as these products may further irritate the chalazion.

If self-care chalazion treatment does not work, it is often advisable to see a doctor, especially if the bump appears to be getting larger. Most doctors can prescribe an antibiotic eye drop or ointment to get rid of the bacteria that may be present inside the bump. If the infection appears to have spread to the eyelid or the entire eye, an antibiotic pill may be necessary. Some doctors may also choose to inject steroid medicine into the bump in order to decrease swelling, especially if the chalazion has grown large enough to obstruct vision.

In some cases, the only chalazion treatment that works is surgical removal, particularly if the bump has been around for months or seems to be growing. In fact, any chalazion that obstructs vision, and does not respond to antibiotics or steroids, usually needs to be surgically removed. In addition, some patients wanting surgery do not experience any complications or blurred vision due to the bump, but may just be bothered by the fact that it can negatively affect the appearance. On the other hand, some doctors prefer to lance the chalazion rather than completely removing it, as piercing it with a clean needle can drain it. Of course, it should be noted that this type of chalazion treatment should not be performed at home since it can lead to further complications when not done correctly.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Autumn Rivers
By Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers, a talented writer for WiseGeek, holds a B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University. Her background in journalism helps her create well-researched and engaging content, providing readers with valuable insights and information on a variety of subjects.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
By anon993430 — On Nov 14, 2015

I had one for months and today I woke up and it was completely gone so my both eyelids look the same again. I think what made it go away was sleeping on my left side last night (which I very rarely do). I almost always sleep on my right side. I wasn't doing any other medications or therapies so it's the only thing I can think of to account for the sudden improvement.

By Mandalee — On Mar 23, 2011

I have a painful bubble on my right eyelid. I already have an astigmatism so this bump is making it so I can't see with my glasses and never mind my contacts -- too painful. Calling eye doc tomorrow.

Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers
Autumn Rivers, a talented writer for WiseGeek, holds a B.A. in Journalism from Arizona State University. Her background in journalism helps her create well-researched and engaging content, providing readers with valuable insights and information on a variety of subjects.
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-different-types-of-chalazion-treatment.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.