Lumps that form on the eyelid are common and can be caused by different factors. There are two main types: styes and chalazia. In today’s post, EyeSite of The Villages, your provider of high-quality eyeglasses and other eye care services, sheds light on these two conditions.
What Is a Chalazion?
A chalazion can develop when the oil glands in your eyelids become clogged and inflamed. At first, the chalazion may not cause any symptoms, but as it grows larger, the affected area may become red and swollen. A large chalazion may press on your eye, which could hamper your vision.
What Is a Stye?
A stye, also referred to as hordeolum, is a painful, pimple-like lump that forms on your eyelid. Your eye doctor explains there are two major types of styes: external and internal. External styes usually form at the base of your eyelashes as a result of an infected hair follicle. Internal styes typically are the result of infected oil glands and form inside your eyelids.
How Are They Different?
While they may look similar, styes and chalazia are different. A stye is a result of an infection and may cause severe pain and swelling that usually involves your entire eyelid. A chalazion is caused by clogged oil glands and rarely causes swelling or discomfort.
How Are They Managed?
We will perform an eye exam to determine if the lump on your eyes is a stye or chalazion. If it’s a stye, we may prescribe antibiotics. Chalazia are typically treated with steroid injections.
For more information about styes and chalazia, call us today at (352) 504-4560. We see patients from Lady Lake, FL, and the surrounding communities.
