Chalazion (Eyelid Cyst)

Various eye diseases such as chalazion (eyelid cyst) can negatively affect individuals' quality of life. Chalazion is known as an eyelid cyst and is a medical condition that occurs inside the eyelids. These are eyelid cysts that occur due to inflammation in the eyelid, which often causes swelling and pain in the eyelids or surrounding tissues. An eyelid cyst is felt as a nodule on the inside of the eyelid and is usually painless. Cysts can grow over time and restrict the field of vision.

When the chalazion is left untreated, a permanent swelling can occur and sometimes it can turn into a mass on the eyelid. Doctors usually recommend warm compresses and medications for treatment, but large or painful cysts may also require surgery. Although chalazion is not a serious health problem, it can occasionally cause discomfort and affect vision. With early diagnosis and treatment, the growth of the cyst can be prevented and eye health can be protected. You can read the rest of the article to learn more comprehensive answers to different questions such as what is chalazion, its symptoms and treatment.

What is Chalazion (Eyelid Cyst)?

Chalazion is a type of cyst that occurs in the upper eyelid. It occurs due to blockage of the meibomian glands in the eyelids, resulting in the accumulation of oil in these glands and the development of infection. In this case, a fluid-filled swelling occurs in the area and this swelling is usually felt within the eyelid. Eyelid cysts can sometimes appear at the eyelash root. It usually does not cause pain, but it may cause discomfort to the person by causing swelling in the area. It usually occurs around the hair follicles on the eyelids or in the sebaceous glands on the inside of the eyelids. Therefore, chalazion may be located under or outside the eyelid.

What are the symptoms of chalazion?

Symptoms of chalazion may include:

• A painless swelling or lump on the eyelid
• Painless redness
• Watering and tenderness in the eyes
• Vision problems such as blurred vision or double vision
• If the swelling becomes infected, symptoms such as pain, redness and fever may occur.

Since chalazion occurs due to blockage of the meibomian glands. It can be seen more frequently in people who have problems such as blepharitis in their eyelids. The risk may also be increased in people with certain other problems, such as eye infections or seborrheic dermatitis. Treatment is usually done with warm compresses, eye drops or ointment. However, cysts that reach large sizes may require surgical intervention.

Can chalazion be prevented?

It is not possible to completely prevent the formation of chalazion in the eye, but some steps such as the following can reduce the risk of its formation:

1. Cleaning your eyes regularly: Protect your eyes from dirt, dust and other foreign substances. Also clean regularly and use appropriate products to remove eye make-up.
2. Hygiene: Avoid touching your eyes and wash your hands regularly. Be sure to follow hygiene rules to reduce the risk of infection.
3. A healthy lifestyle: Adopting a healthy lifestyle strengthens your immune system and helps protect your eyes from infections. A healthy diet, adequate sleep and regular exercise can help reduce the risk of eyelid cysts.
4. Use of glasses or sunglasses: This can protect your eyes from UV rays, which can help reduce the risk of developing an eyelid cyst. li>
5. Proper use of contact lenses: If you wear contact lenses, it is very important to comply with hygiene rules and change your contact lenses regularly.

How to Diagnose Chalazion?

Chalazion is diagnosed by an ophthalmologist through examination. During the physical examination, your doctor may follow these steps:

1. Examination: Your doctor will carefully examine your eyelid. Other eye problems may also be diagnosed during this examination.
2. Taking anamnesis: Your doctor may ask about your symptoms, previous eye conditions, allergies, medications you use, and other health problems.
3. Print test: Your doctor will examine the fluid inside the cyst. may do a pressure test to drain it. This test can help evaluate the severity of the cyst.
4. Biopsy: In rare cases, a biopsy may be performed to determine whether the cyst is a cancerous tumor or a symptom of another serious condition.

Eyelid cyst It is a condition that can usually be diagnosed with a simple examination. If you experience symptoms such as swelling, painless redness or blurred vision, it is recommended that you consult an ophthalmologist.

What Causes Chalazion?

The main cause of chalazion is the blockage of the oil glands in the eyelid. Sebaceous glands produce the oil necessary to moisturize the eyes. These oils flow through small holes and keep the eyes moist. However, sometimes these oil glands can become blocked and lead to the formation of a cyst or tumor on the eyelids. Chalazion is a cyst formation caused by this blockage.

Other causes of chalazion may include eye infections, seborrheic dermatitis, eyelid inflammation and injuries, or skin problems. In addition, the use of contact lenses, make-up or touching the eyes with dirty hands can also increase cyst formation. Some people are more prone to blocked oil glands, which can increase the risk. These people may include those with skin problems such as seborrheic dermatitis, rosacea or acne, contact lens wearers or those with weakened immune systems.

Does chalazion go away on its own?

An eyelid cyst may go away on its own, but this process may take several weeks or months. Most of the time it does not require treatment and remains just a cyst. However, if symptoms become very bothersome or the cyst grows in size, treatment may be necessary.

How is chalazion treated?

Chalazion treatment may vary depending on your symptoms, the size of the cyst, and your general health. Treatment options may include:

1. Warm compresses: A warm compress may help the cyst soften and open on its own. It is recommended to apply a compress to the cyst with a warm cloth for 10-15 minutes.
2. Massage: Light massaging around the cyst may help the cyst drain.
3. Medication: Drops or ointments containing antibiotics or corticosteroids, When used under doctor's supervision, it can reduce inflammation and swelling of the cyst.
4. Surgical intervention: Large or painful cysts can be removed surgically. This procedure can be performed by your doctor in the office under sterile conditions.

Chalazion usually heals on its own within a few weeks or months, but if left untreated, the process may take longer. To prevent the cyst from growing further, clean your eyelids regularly, follow hygiene rules if you use contact lenses, and remove your make-up before going to bed at night.

Chalazion (Eyelid Cyst) Surgery

Chalazion surgery is a surgical procedure performed to remove the cyst on the eyelid. This procedure is performed to treat a blocked oil gland on the eyelid or eyelid inflammation. The surgical procedure is usually performed by an ophthalmologist under local anesthesia. A small incision on the eyelid is made and the cyst is removed using small tweezers or a scalpel.

Warm compresses are usually recommended after surgery, and drops or ointments containing antibiotics or corticosteroids may need to be used for several days. It is normal to feel mild pain or discomfort for a few days after the surgical procedure. Chalazion surgery is generally quick and safe and produces successful results for most people. However, as with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of complications. Therefore, before surgery, your doctor can give you detailed information about the procedure and talk about its risks and benefits.

Will There Be Recurrences After Chalazion Surgery?

There may be a risk of cyst recurrence after chalazion surgery. However, this condition is rare and can usually be prevented by using correct surgical techniques and following postoperative recommendations. The risk of recurrence is especially higher in people with a history of recurrent chalazion. Additionally, factors such as untreated blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids), irregular cleaning of the eyelids, and contact lens use may also increase the risk of recurrence.

After chalazion surgery, your doctor will give you special care instructions. It is important to follow these instructions to speed up the healing process and reduce the risk of cyst recurrence. Following recommendations such as using warm compresses, eye drops, or ointments during the healing period can help prevent the cyst from recurring. However, if the chalazion recurs, new surgical intervention may be required.