Chalazion
A chalazion is a swelling in the eyelid caused by chronic blockage and inflammation of one of the small oil producing glands located in the upper and lower eyelids. A chalazion is sometimes confused with a stye, which also appears as a lump in the eyelid, but is an acute infection. Chalazions tend to occur farther from the edge of the eyelid than styes and tend to "point" toward the inside of the eyelid. Sometimes a chalazion can cause the entire eyelid to swell suddenly.

When a chalazion is small and without symptoms, it may disappear on its own. If the chalazion is large, it may cause blurred vision. Chalazions are treated with the following methods:

 

•	Warm compresses can be applied. The simplest way is to hold a clean washcloth, soaked in hot water, against the closed lid. Do this for ten minutes, three or four times a day. Repeatedly soak the washcloth in hot water to maintain adequate heat. The majority of chalazions will disappear within a few weeks to months. Sometimes antibiotic ointments are used in combination with warm compresses.
•	Apply light pressure with the finger directly over the chalazion. Do this immediately after the warm compress has been applied for ten minutes. This pressure may help express the material inside the chalazion and reduce its size. Do not squeeze or try to pop the chalazion.
•	Surgical removal may be necessary for large chalazions which do not respond to other treatment.

Chalazions usually respond well to treatment, although some people are prone to recurrences. If a chalazion recurs in the same place, your eye doctor may suggest a biopsy to rule out more serious problems.