Styes & Chalazia
What Is It?
Chalazions and hordeolums (also known as styes) are the result of inflammation of the tiny little oil glands within the eyelid. These oil glands are deep within the eyelid and drain out tiny little openings located right behind the eyelashes. This oil is important not only to protect the eyelid surface but it also makes up the outside layer of the tear film
What are the Symptoms?
Common symptoms include a painful bump on the eyelid. Blurred vision and mild discharge may also be associated with these conditions.
What causes it?
Little holes at the tip of the eyelid get blocked by bacteria, make-up, or get smaller because of inflammation. This results in swelling of the eyelids. In its acute stage the eyelid becomes very red and painful. If the condition persists the inflammation will decrease but a large, non-painful nodule will develop deep within the eyelid. The initial treatment for these conditions involves warm compresses. If the condition does not improve within a few weeks, return to the clinic for further evaluation and treatment. In advanced cases medications or surgery may be necessary to remove the nodules.
How do we treat it
There are various ways to treat styes. There are topical medications that can be used to reduce infection or inflammation. These medication may be used multiple times a day depending on the overall cause of the stye. In some instances, oral medications may also be used to help treat this conditions. Using heat, hot compresses, can also help liquefy the thickened oil or blocked gland.
How to Use Warm Compresses
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Wash your hands |
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Heat up a clean cotton wash cloth using with warm tap water. |
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Wring out the washcloth and hold it over your closed eyelids for 60-90 seconds.
Reheat if necessary. |
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Massage the affected area gently |
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Repeat this procedure approximately 4 times a day |
Preventing Repeat Occurrences
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Be sure to properly remove any eye make-up every night before bed. |
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Perform the hot compresses routine discussed above at least a few times a week. |
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Check with your doctor to be sure that you don’t have a more serious underlying eyelid infection if the problem persists.
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This gland becomes clogged and starts to swell like a pimple on your face.
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