If you’ve ever had a small, painful lump on your eyelid, you might have wondered whether it was a chalazion or a stye. Although they may look similar, these two conditions have different causes and treatments. Understanding the differences can help you take the right steps for treatment, especially if you’re searching for solutions like treating a chalazion in Nashville, TN.
What Is a Chalazion?
A chalazion is a small, usually painless bump that appears on the eyelid due to a blocked meibomian gland. These glands are responsible for producing the oil that lubricates the eye. When one of these glands gets blocked, the oil builds up and forms a lump. Unlike a stye, which is often red and tender, a chalazion is typically less painful and more firm to the touch.
Chalazia can develop on either the upper or lower eyelid and may affect vision if they grow large enough to press on the eyeball. Although they are generally not a cause for concern, they can become problematic if they persist or recur.
Key characteristics of a chalazion:
- Location: More often found on the inner part of the eyelid.
- Pain: Typically painless.
- Appearance: Firm, round, and may grow larger over time.
- Treatment: Warm compresses, steroid injections, or surgical removal.
What Is a Stye?
A stye, on the other hand, is an infection of an eyelash follicle or oil gland. This condition usually results in a red, swollen bump that can be quite painful. Styes are caused by bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus, and they tend to form at the edge of the eyelid, near the base of the eyelashes.
Styes often start as a small, red, and tender area that quickly becomes swollen and painful. They can sometimes be accompanied by a scratchy sensation in the eye or increased tearing. Unlike chalazia, styes are infectious and can spread to other parts of the eyelid or even to other people.
Key characteristics of a stye:
- Location: Usually found at the edge of the eyelid, near the base of the eyelashes.
- Pain: Often painful and tender to the touch.
- Appearance: Red, swollen, and may have a pus-filled center.
- Treatment: Warm compresses, antibiotic ointments, and proper hygiene.
Chalazion in Nashville, TN: When to Seek Professional Help
If you’re dealing with a chalazion in Nashville, TN and home remedies like warm compresses aren’t providing relief, it might be time to seek professional help. While chalazia often resolve on their own, persistent or recurring cases may require medical intervention. An oculoplastic specialist can offer advanced treatment options, including steroid injections or surgical removal.
At TN Oculoplastics, we understand how uncomfortable and concerning eyelid conditions can be. Our team of specialists offers comprehensive care for a wide range of eyelid issues, including chalazia and styes. Whether you need a consultation for a stubborn chalazion or want to explore your treatment options, we’re here to help.
Don’t let a chalazion affect your daily life. Visit us at TN Oculoplastics to schedule your consultation and learn more about the treatment options available in Nashville, TN!