Chalazion is defined by the formation of a cyst in the eyelid. This cyst is usually harmless in origin and painless.

La Chalazion, what is it?

Definition of chalazion:

Chalazion is characterized by the formation of a cyst (area of ​​swelling of tissue containing fluid) in the eyelid.

This cyst is usually not painful, but may take some time to subside.

In the majority of cases, the formation of such a cyst does not lead to visual disturbances. But the vision can be degraded as part of a very large swelling, causing pressure on the eye.

The causes of chalazion:

Meibomian glands are located on the inner part of the eyelid. These allow in particular the irrigation of the eye and thus to keep a certain humidity at the level of the eye, thanks to the secretion of an oily fluid.

The chalazion is then the consequence of a blockage at the level of these eye glands. Indeed, when these glands are “blocked”, the fluid allowing hydration of the eye can no longer circulate. This then results in the formation of a cyst.

In the most extreme cases, the cyst can go so far as to resemble a nodule.

Symptoms and treatments of Chalazion.

Symptoms of chalazion

During the formation of the cyst, an awkward and uncomfortable sensation may then be felt.

This cyst, characteristic of the chalazion, may resemble a small local nodule but its development (in the form of swelling) may gradually extend to the entire eyelid.

In the case of an infection of the cyst, the latter may turn out to be red, painful and hot.

The risk factors associated with the pathology relate to a lack of hygiene in the eyes but can also be completely harmless. Indeed, the appearance of this kind of cyst can be sudden and for no underlying reason.

Treatment of chalazion

Diagnosis of the disease requires only visual examination. Indeed, the observation of the swelling in the eyelid is directly visible both by the patient and by the doctor, during his consultation.

In most cases, the healing of the pathology as well as the reduction of associated symptoms occurs spontaneously, quickly and without treatment.

If the cyst causes discomfort or even visual disturbances, applying a damp washcloth to the eyelid may be recommended. Indeed, humidity helps reduce the feeling of discomfort as well as reduce pain, if it is present.

The swollen or even infected part of the eyelid should be cleaned with a cotton swab dipped in boiled water and then cooled. This method can also be used in the context of alleviating the clinical signs of chalazion.

In a more rare context where the cyst damages vision or is really painful, consulting a ophthalmologist may be necessary.

In the majority of cases, the chalazion disappears as it appeared: quickly, suddenly and without any real explanation.

However, if the site concerned is infected, it is necessary to consult quickly in order to treat the site as soon as possible and thus limit the spread of the effects to other tissues. The treatment of an infection of bacterial origin is then effective by antibiotic therapy.

Surgery for a chalazion is very rare, but possible.

Recurrence of chalazion is very rare. However, some patients seem to be more prone to disease recurrence than others. The return of the cyst is therefore rare, but possible.

As part of the prevention of the formation of such a cyst, it is then recommended to adopt good hygiene (in order to limit infections), particularly in the eyes.