Chalazion Treatment In Everett, WA

If you’ve noticed a lump forming on your eyelid and are concerned it might be a chalazion, it’s important to address it right away to avoid discomfort and potential complications. At Physicians Eye Clinic in Everett, Washington, we specialize in treating chalazia and other eye conditions. Our experienced physicians are well-equipped to diagnose and treat you.

If you are worried you may have a chalazion, please call our office at 425-259-2020 for treatment recommendations or to schedule an appointment.

What Is a Chalazion?

A chalazion is a small, non-infectious lump that develops in the upper or lower eyelid due to the blockage of the meibomian gland, an oil gland in the eyelid. The meibomian gland produces fluid that lubricates the eye. While children can develop chalazia, it more commonly affects adults between the ages of 30 to 50.

Although typically harmless, a chalazion can cause swelling and tenderness, and even interfere with your vision if left untreated.

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What Causes a Chalazion?

There are almost 100 meibomian glands in the eyelid, located near the eyelashes. When the duct that drains the gland is blocked, the fluid becomes backed up inside the gland and forms a chalazion. Several factors can contribute to the blockage of these glands:

Thickening of the glandular secretion: Changes in the oil consistency can cause it to thicken, making it difficult to flow out freely.
Eyelid inflammation: Conditions like blepharitis, which causes inflammation of the eyelid edges, can contribute to gland blockages.
Hormonal changes: Shifts in hormone levels can affect the consistency of the gland’s secretion, influencing the likelihood of blockages.
Poor eyelid hygiene: Inadequate removal of eye makeup or infrequent cleaning of the eyelids can lead to debris and bacterial buildup, which can block the meibomian glands.
Chronic conditions: People with skin conditions such as rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis are more prone to experiencing chalazia due to inflammation and changes in skin and gland secretions.

In some cases, a chalazion can also develop following an infection of the eyelid. Such infections can cause the gland’s ducts to swell and become blocked. While not typically serious, recurring chalazia or those that do not resolve may require further medical evaluation to ensure a more significant underlying condition is not present.

What Are the Symptoms?

Symptoms include the following:

A bump or lump in the upper or lower eyelid
Tenderness of the eyelid
Sensitivity to light
Excessive tearing
Blurry vision
Blepharitis
Astigmatism

If you have some or all of these symptoms, please refer to the recommended treatments below or contact us today for more information.

How to Treat a Chalazion

A chalazion usually resolves on its own over time. However, it can take a few months before it fully disappears. The following options are available to treat a chalazion:

Warm compresses applied four times a day for 10 to 15 minutes each time
Antibiotic ointment
Steroid injection
Surgical drainage

While older children and adults may undergo the surgical drainage procedure in a doctor’s office under local anesthesia, general anesthesia is usually recommended for removal in young children. If a chalazion recurs in the same place, our doctors may conduct a tissue biopsy to rule out a more serious issue.

Why Choose Physicians Eye Clinic?

At Physicians Eye Clinic, we blend decades of experience with personalized care. Our team includes board-certified eye doctor Dr. Thomas W. Jones Jr., who has been serving the Everett community for over 30 years. He specializes in LASIK, cataract surgeries, and facial rejuvenation. Dr. Jones, Jr. founded Physicians Eye Surgery Center, the first accredited surgery center in Washington State dedicated to ophthalmic surgery.

Joining the clinic in 2016, Dr. Thomas W. Jones III brings advanced expertise in astigmatism management, presbyopia-correcting lens technology, and the latest advancements in cataract surgery. He also offers a range of refractive and cosmetic procedures, including LASIK, Botox®, and Restylane®. Together, our skilled doctors and dedicated staff provide comprehensive, compassionate care, making Physicians Eye Clinic the premier choice for your eye health and cosmetic needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the Difference Between a Chalazion and a Stye or Blepharitis?

A chalazion is a non-infectious blockage of an oil gland in the eyelid, leading to a slow-growing lump. In contrast, a stye is an infection of an oil gland or hair follicle in the eyelid, causing a painful, red, and swollen lump. Blepharitis involves inflammation of the eyelid margins, often due to skin conditions or bacterial infections. It’s characterized by redness, itching, and dandruff-like scales on the eyelashes.

What Happens if I Don’t Treat My Chalazion?

While many chalazia resolve without treatment, neglecting a persistent chalazion can lead to complications such as an enlarged lump that may impact vision by distorting the shape of the eye. Rarely, an untreated chalazion could turn into a more severe infection or require surgical removal if it does not eventually clear up on its own.

Is Chalazion Treatment Painful?

Most chalazion treatments are not painful. Warm compresses, the most common treatment, are soothing and pain-free. If medical intervention is necessary, such as a steroid injection or surgical drainage, local anesthesia is used to numb the area, making the procedure virtually painless. However, there might be some discomfort or sensitivity in the eyelid as it heals post-treatment.

How Can I Prevent a Chalazion?

Preventing a chalazion involves maintaining good eyelid hygiene. Regularly cleaning the eyelids with gentle cleansers or baby shampoo can help. Avoid touching or rubbing the eyes with unclean hands, remove makeup before sleeping, and replace old makeup.

For individuals prone to eyelid issues, using warm compresses periodically might help keep the oil glands clear.

What Should I Do if My Chalazion Comes Back After Treatment?

If your chalazion recurs after initial treatment, consult your eye care professional again. Recurrent chalazia may require further evaluation to ensure there isn't an underlying condition contributing to the blockage.

Comprehensive Eye Care Services at Physicians Eye Clinic

Physicians Eye Clinic proudly serves Everett, Marysville, Snohomish, Mill Creek, and the surrounding areas. If you believe you require treatment, please call us at 425-259-2020 today or fill out our contact form for more information.

Physicians Eye Clinic proudly serves Everett, Marysville, Snohomish, Mill Creek, and the surrounding areas. If you believe you require treatment please call us at (425) 259-2020 today or fill out our contact form for more information.