A chalazion is a firm, usually painless lump in the eyelid caused by blockage of a meibomian gland. It represents chronic inflammation rather than acute infection.
Symptoms and risk factors
Chalazia may follow a stye or appear without obvious infection.
- Localized eyelid swelling that feels rubbery rather than tender
- Occasional mild discomfort or cosmetic concern
- More common in people with blepharitis, rosacea, or oily skin
- Large lesions can press on the cornea and blur vision
Treatment
Many chalazia resolve with conservative care, though some need minor surgery.
- Warm compresses and lid massage several times daily
- Topical or oral antibiotics if associated with infection or lid disease
- Incision and curettage under local anaesthetic for persistent lumps
- Biopsy of atypical or recurrent lesions to exclude rare tumours
