What is a chalazion, especially in the context of someone with a history of blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction?

What is a Chalazion?

A chalazion is a painless, non-inflammatory bump that develops in your eyelid when one of the oil-producing glands (called a meibomian gland) becomes blocked and the trapped oil forms a firm lump. 1, 2

How It Develops

• Your eyelids contain small oil glands (meibomian glands) that produce oils to keep your tears from evaporating too quickly 3
• When one of these glands becomes blocked, the oil gets trapped inside and forms a firm, round lump within the eyelid tissue 2
• Unlike a stye (hordeolum), which is painful and infected, a chalazion develops gradually over days to weeks and typically doesn't hurt 2, 4
• The lump can occur on either your upper or lower eyelid and may cause localized swelling, redness, and mild discomfort 2

Connection to Your Eye Conditions

If you have a history of blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) or meibomian gland dysfunction, you are at higher risk for developing chalazia because these conditions cause the oil glands to become chronically blocked. 1, 2

• Blepharitis causes inflammation along your eyelid margins that can obstruct the gland openings 1
• Meibomian gland dysfunction means your oil glands aren't working properly, making blockages more likely 2
• People with skin conditions like rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis are also more prone to recurrent chalazia 1, 4

What to Expect

• Most chalazia resolve on their own over weeks to months, though some persist longer 2
• The bump may cause cosmetic concerns if it's large or visible 2
• It typically doesn't affect your vision unless it becomes very large and presses on your eyeball 2

When to Worry

You should see your eye doctor promptly if:

• The chalazion keeps coming back in the exact same spot, especially if you're over 50 years old—this could rarely indicate a serious cancer called sebaceous carcinoma masquerading as a chalazion 1, 4
• You develop moderate to severe pain (chalazia shouldn't be very painful) 2
• You notice vision changes, severe redness, or the eyelid margin becomes distorted 1, 2
• You lose eyelashes in the affected area 2

Treatment Approach

Start with warm compresses applied to your closed eyelid for 5-10 minutes, 3-4 times daily, combined with gentle eyelid cleaning. 1, 4

• After applying warmth, gently massage the area to help express the blocked oil 1
• Clean your eyelid margins daily with mild soap or commercial eyelid cleansers 1
• If your chalazion doesn't improve after 4-6 weeks, your doctor may inject a steroid medication directly into the lump (93.8% success rate) or recommend surgical removal 1, 4

Prevention for the Future

Since you have blepharitis or meibomian gland dysfunction, maintaining daily eyelid hygiene is crucial to prevent new chalazia from forming. 1, 4

• Continue regular eyelid cleaning even after the chalazion resolves 1, 4
• Treat any underlying skin conditions like rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis 1, 4
• Avoid eye makeup during active inflammation 2, 4
• Your doctor may recommend treating your underlying blepharitis or gland dysfunction before addressing the chalazion itself 1, 4