Styes and chalazia are bumps that appear on or near the edge of an eyelid, and it can sometimes be difficult to distinguish between them. Both conditions indicate minor eye problems, but each has its own specific symptoms and treatments. In this article, with the help of specialists from Clínica Nivaria in Santa Cruz de Tenerife, we'll tell you all about them.
What is a stye?
A stye is a red, painful bump near the edge of the eyelid, originating at the base of an eyelash or under the eyelid. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection. External styes, which begin at the base of the eyelash, may resemble a pimple, while internal styes develop inside the eyelid due to an infection in an oil gland.
Blepharitis, which inflames the eyelids at the base of the eyelashes, can also predispose one to developing styes. Initially, the affected eyelid appears red and tender, and the eye may feel scratchy and sensitive to light.
What is a chalazion?
A chalazion develops when a sebaceous gland in the eyelid becomes blocked. This lump on the eyelid may initially be painless, but as it grows, the eyelid may become red, swollen, and occasionally tender. If the chalazion is large, it can press on the eye and cause blurred vision. Rarely, it can cause inflammation of the entire eyelid.
Differences between a stye and a chalazion
A stye tends to be very painful, appears on the edge of the eyelid, and is usually associated with an infection at the base of an eyelash. It can cause swelling of the entire eyelid.
A chalazion is usually painless and forms behind the eyelid due to a blocked sebaceous gland. It rarely causes complete swelling of the eyelid.
Symptoms of styes and chalazia
Symptoms of a stye include:
- A red, painful lump on the edge of the eyelid.
- A spot of pus in the center of the lump.
- Sensation of having something in the eye.
- Sensitivity to light and tearing.
A chalazion may not show symptoms at first, but can include:
- A lump on the eyelid, sometimes red and swollen.
- Blurred vision if the chalazion is large.
Risk factors:
Anyone can develop a stye or chalazion, but the risk increases with:
- Previous history of styes or chalazia.
- Skin conditions such as rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis.
- Diabetes or other medical problems.
Treatment:
The treatment includes:
- Hot compresses applied several times a day.
- Gently massage the area to help drain the blockage.
- Antibiotics for infected styes.
- Steroid injections to reduce chalazion swelling.
- Surgery to drain the lump if it affects vision or does not go away.
Precautions:
Do not try to squeeze or puncture a stye or chalazion, as this could spread the infection. Avoid eye makeup and contact lenses while you have either of these problems.
For more information, please visit our Ophthalmology Clinic in Santa Cruz de Tenerife. Contact us and schedule an appointment with one of our professionals. You'll receive the best ophthalmological care in the Canary Islands!
