Chalazion/Styes

A chalazion is a small, red lump that develops on the eyelid. It is sometimes referred to as an eyelid cyst or a meibomian cyst. A chalazion forms when one of the oil-producing glands in the eyelid, called a meibomian gland, becomes blocked.

In the early stages, a chalazion may be tender or painful. Over time, the discomfort usually settles, and the lump becomes painless. Chalazia most commonly form on the inside of the upper eyelid, but they can occasionally develop on the lower eyelid.

Chalazia can occur in any age group.

If you have a chalazion, you will usually notice a lump on your eyelid, most often on the upper lid. When it first develops, it may be tender or painful, but the discomfort usually settles quickly. As it grows, the eyelid may become red, swollen, or mildly tender.

Other symptoms may include:

• Mild irritation that causes the eye to water
• Blurred vision if the chalazion becomes large enough to press on the eye
• Swelling of the entire eyelid

No. Chalazia are not caused by infection and cannot be spread from person to person.

Chalazia are very common and can affect anyone. You may be more likely to develop one if you:

• Have had a chalazion before
• Have chronic eyelid inflammation (blepharitis)
• Have skin conditions such as rosacea or seborrhoeic dermatitis (dandruff)
• Are experiencing hormonal changes

Large chalazia can press against the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye), which may cause blurred or reduced vision.

Most chalazia can be treated at home and will resolve within a month or less.

Important: Do not squeeze or try to pop a chalazion, as this can worsen inflammation or cause infection.

Recommended home care includes:

• Warm compresses: Apply a clean, warm washcloth to the affected eyelid for 15 minutes, at least three times a day. This helps open the blocked gland.
• Good eye hygiene: Avoid eye makeup while the chalazion is present. Keep the area clean and avoid touching or rubbing your eyes.

If the chalazion does not improve, an eye care provider may recommend:

• Draining the chalazion through a small incision
• A steroid injection to reduce inflammation and swelling

If you’ve had one chalazion, you may develop another in the future. Practising good eyelid hygiene can help reduce the risk of recurrence.

While not all chalazia can be prevented, good hygiene can lower your risk, especially if you’re prone to styes or eyelid inflammation.

Helpful prevention tips include:

• Hand hygiene: Wash your hands before touching your eyes
• Contact lens care: Clean lenses properly and replace them as recommended
• Face and eyelid cleaning: Wash your face daily and remove makeup before bed. Your provider may suggest eyelid scrubs or diluted baby shampoo
• Makeup hygiene: Replace eye makeup every 2–3 months and never share makeup
• Hot compresses regularly

You should see an eye care professional if:

• A chalazion does not improve with home treatment
• The lump becomes painful or affects your vision
• Chalazia recur frequently