Kolkata: Dr. Madhusmita Behera, Senior Consultant, Department of Cataract, Orbit and Oculoplastic Surgery, Rotary Techno Nethralaya Explained : Lumps on the eyelid are a common complaint that can be both painful and persistent. These bumps often start as painful, red swellings but may evolve into painless lumps that linger.
Understanding the nature of these lumps, commonly known as styes and chalazia, is crucial for proper treatment and care.
A stye, medically termed as an Acute Hordeolum, is an infection of the glands in the eyelid. The infection occurs when these glands, either internal or external, become blocked by secretions that eventually become infected.
This blockage can be linked to poor eyelid hygiene, such as regular eye rubbing, or conditions like blepharitis (infection of the eyelashes), pimples, or even systemic issues like uncontrolled diabetes.
When a stye is in its acute phase, characterized by redness, pain, and swelling, warm compresses are the first line of treatment.
Warm compresses help to melt the blocked secretions, facilitating drainage and reducing discomfort. Oral antibiotics and painkillers may also be necessary, so consulting an eye doctor is advisable. Sometimes, the stye bursts on its own, releasing pus, which indicates the healing process.
Contrary to popular belief, eyedrops are not effective in treating styes. Since the infection is within the eyelid glands, eyedrops cannot penetrate deep enough to be effective. They only work on the surface of the eye, making them unsuitable for treating this condition.
Chalazion: The Chronic Stage – If a stye does not resolve, it can develop into a chalazion—a painless, chronic swelling on the eyelid. A chalazion is a result of long-standing blockage and infection of the meibomian glands, which are responsible for secreting oils into the eyelids.
For chalazia, conservative treatment remains the most effective. This involves regular warm compresses, applied twice daily for 10 minutes each session, over a period of 6 to 8 weeks. No medications, eyedrops, or ointments are needed at this stage.
For persistent cases, surgical options such as incision and curettage may be recommended. This procedure involves making a small cut inside the eyelid to drain the accumulated secretions. Alternatively, intralesional injections can be used, especially in cases involving multiple or strategically located chalazia, to minimize the impact on eyelid appearance and function.
Understanding the nature of these eyelid lumps and following proper treatment protocols can effectively address both the acute and chronic stages of this condition, dispelling common myths and overcoming treatment challenges.
