Chalazion
A chalazion is a firm, localised lump that forms within the eyelid due to the obstruction and inflammation of a Meibomian gland (an oil-producing gland). While it may initially be tender, it often becomes a painless swelling. Many chalazia resolve spontaneously or with targeted conservative management, such as warm compresses and lid hygiene but some need specialised medical attention or surgical management.
Discover how to proceed with lid hygiene in the drawings below.
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A chalazion here affects the Lower Eyelid. It is a firm and sometimes painful subcutaneous nodule.
The chalazion of the upper eyelid is more common and has a greater tendency to obstruct vision by obstructing the visual axis.
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Appliquez de la châleur (1-2 minutes)
- Utilisez une compresse propre, un gant de toilette chaud ou un masque chauffant réutilisable.
- Appliquer sur les paupières fermées.
- La chaleur permet de fluidifier les sécrétions meibomiques et de dilater l'ouverture des glandes de Meibomius.
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Massez délicatement les paupières
- Avec les doigts propres ou un coton-tige, massez le long du bord des paupières :
- Paupière supérieure : de haut en bas
- Paupière inférieure : de bas en haut
- Ce massage aide à exprimer les glandes de Meibomus pour évacuer les sécrétions bloquées.
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Nettoyez le bord des paupières (croûtes et débris)
- Utilisez :
- Une lingette spécifique pour paupières (vendue en pharmacie)
- Ou un coton-tige ou coton de démaquillage imbibé de sérum physiologique, ou d’une solution micellaire adaptée aux yeux
- Frottez délicatement la base des cils (bord libre des paupières) pour retirer les sécrétion et croûtes
What is a Chalazion?
A chalazion is a localised inflammation of a Meibomian gland within the eyelid. These glands produce the essential lipid (oil) layer of the tear film, which prevents tears from evaporating too quickly and maintains ocular lubrication. When a gland's duct becomes obstructed, oily secretions build up, resulting in a firm nodule.
How to Recognise It
- A firm lump: Usually felt within the eyelid; more common on the upper lid but can occur on the lower lid.
- Initial Tenderness: It may be painful during the acute inflammatory stage but typically becomes a painless, firm swelling.
- Redness and Swelling: Localised to the area of the lump.
- Visual Disturbance: If the chalazion is large enough, it can press on the cornea and cause temporary blurred vision.
Natural Progression
The majority of chalazia resolve spontaneously within a few weeks. However, some may persist or increase in size, requiring conservative management or, in some cases, surgical intervention.
Possible Treatments
- Warm Compresses: Applied several times a day to liquefy the blocked oils.
- Eyelid Massage: Gentle pressure to encourage the drainage of the obstructed gland.
- Medicated Ointments: Antibiotic and corticosteroid combinations may be prescribed if inflammation persists.
- Surgical Excision: A minor procedure to drain the chalazion if it remains large, painful, or fails to resolve after several weeks.
Is it Contagious?
No. A chalazion is an inflammatory condition, not an infectious one. It is not contagious and cannot be spread to other people or to your other eye through contact.
When to Consult an Ophthalmologist
- If the lump persists for more than 2 to 3 weeks despite consistent warm compresses and massage.
- If the area becomes significantly painful, red, or is accompanied by a fever.
- If you suffer from recurrent chalazia, as an ophthalmological evaluation is necessary to rule out underlying lid margin disease.
Motifs de consultations associés
Les procédures chirurchicales associées
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