Sty and Chalazion
Sty Treatment OverviewWhile painful and unsightly, most styes heal within a few days on their own or with simple treatment. Chalazia, too, often disappear on their own, but this may take a month or more.Typical treatment
Typical treatment for a sty consists of applying warm compresses to the affected eye for 10 to 15 minutes four times daily for several days. This not only relieves pain and inflammation but also helps the sty ripen faster. Be sure to close your eye while you apply the compresses. When the sty comes to a head, continue applying warm compresses to relieve pressure and promote rupture. Do not squeeze the sty. Let it burst on its own.If these lesions recur, your doctor may prescribe an oral antibiotic. Take the antibiotic as directed.
Minor Surgery (in some cases)
Minor surgery may be needed to completely drain a sty. After applying a local anesthetic, your ophthalmologist opens the sty and removes the contents. The eyelid usually heals quickly.Chalazion Overview
A chalazion is a lump in the eyelid that is caused by inflammation of a gland within the skin. Typically, this lump grows over days to weeks and is occasionally red, warm, or painful.Although a chalazion will often disappear on its own, applying warm compresses may accelerate the healing process. Selected patients may benefit from a direct injection of anti-inflammatory medication to the area. The chalazion can also be removed through simple surgery under a local anesthetic. Your surgeon will usually apply an eyelid bandage for 24 hours.
The gland involved in the formation of a chalazion is a modified sweat gland that lies within the eyelid. This gland produces oil. When this gland becomes blocked, it can rupture and the inflammation process begins.
Inflammation is a process in which the body reacts to a condition and produces a biologic reaction. This reaction can cause swelling, redness, pain, or warmth.
A chalazion is not a sty but it is similar in the sense that it is also a lump in the eyelid. However, a sty involves glands and hair follicles that are closer to the skin surface of the eyelid. In addition, a sty is usually more painful.
For more information or to make an appointment call Zaffater Eye Center: 318-747-5838 or Toll Free: 866-480-3937.