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.What are Chalazions, and Styes?

12/06/2024 Ophtalmology

Dra. Karina Marian Rayas Covarrubias

 

Humans have more or less 50 glands on each superior and inferior edge of our eyelids; therefore, it is frequent that one or more can be affected simultaneously, making it seem like the original lesion never resolved. 


Which factor can favor their emergence?
 

  • Blepharitis
  • Eyelid hygiene deficiencies
  • Increased sebaceous production
  • Genetic predisposition
  • Associated skin diseases, such as rosacea.
     

There are certain differences that depend on location, the affected gland, chronicity, and if there is a bacterial infection present.

 

  • Stye
     

It is a red and painful bump that grows at the eyelash base or inside the eyelid. Styes are caused by inflammation of the Zeiss or Moll glands. A bacterial infection causes most.
 

Blepharitis (inflammation and irritation at the edge of the eyelids) can precede these lesions.
 

There are two types:
 

External: Similar to a pimple. It starts at the base of the eyelash, and an infection of this follicle can cause it. 
 

Internal: It grows on the inside of the eyelid. It is caused by an infection of the grease producing gland in the eyelid. 
 

 SYMPTOMS
 

  • A red eyelid that is tender to the touch. 
  • Painful bulging on the eyelid.
  • Itchy eye.

 

  • Chalazion

It is a little bump on the eyelid that can either be slightly painful or not painful at all. It occurs when one of the meibomian glands becomes blocked. It can originate from an internal stye where the infectious process began, and the fat remains encapsulated. 
 

 

SYMPTOMS 
 

  • Painless or slightly painful
  • A bulge in the eyelid 
  • Occasionally blurred vision if it is large and presses on the eyelid 
  • Very rarely inflammation of the entire eyelid
     

 

What is the difference?
The stye is usually acute, sudden, painful, and red while the chalazion is mostly painless, there is no redness, and it is a chronic condition.  
 

 What should I do if I have either?
Visit your Ophthalmologist to determine the proper diagnosis, correct and prompt management.
 

 

The treatment includes:
 

  • Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops or ointments.
  • Hot compresses of purified water.
  • A chalazion will often require surgical drainage.
  • Avoid home remedies.

 

For any questions, I am at your service to offer the best for you and your family.

 

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