Chalazion (Stye)

A chalazion or stye is a firm, non-painful mass in the eyelid. A chalazion is not caused by a virus or bacteria and therefore cannot be spread to others.

What is a chalazion A chalazion, sometimes called a stye, is a firm, non-painful nodule (mass) in (stye)? the eyelid. It is caused by the blockage of an oil producing gland in the eyelid – not by a virus or bacteria. It cannot be spread to others.

A chalazion may:

• Be found in the upper or lower eyelid • Appear suddenly or grow slowly over time • Be painful, red, and swollen • Produce a firm, non-painful mass

What is the Usually a chalazion is treated by applying direct heat to the area with a treatment for a warm compress. The heat works by breaking up the oil in the blocked gland and helping it to drain. chalazion?

To make a warm Take a clean washcloth and run it under warm water, then wring it out. compress: Wrap the warm damp towel around a warm boiled egg (with shell left on), a hot baked potato (wrapped in foil) or a warmed microwave rice bag. This keeps the compress hot for a longer period. Be sure the compress is not too hot by testing it on your inner wrist.

To treat the chalazion • Hold the warm compress on the eyelid until the compress cools. with a compress: Then re-warm the compress and place it back on the eyelid. • Try to keep the warm compress in place for at least 5 minutes and repeat 4 to 10 times a day. • Lightly massage the chalazion for several minutes. Do not squeeze. The warm compresses may make the chalazion increase in size and drain. This is part of the healing process. The chalazion will heal faster the more often you use the warm compresses.

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To Learn More Free Interpreter Services • Ophthalmology • In the hospital, ask your nurse. 206-987-3567 • From outside the hospital, call the • Ask your child’s healthcare provider toll-free Family Interpreting Line, 1-866-583-1527. Tell the interpreter • seattlechildrens.org the name or extension you need.

Chalazion (Stye)

What else can I do Use mild baby shampoo to clean the lids and lashes in the morning and to treat the at night. chalazion? To do this: • Keep the eyes closed • Massage the lids with shampoo for about 1 minute • Rinse with warm water If using baby shampoo, consider “tear-free” or “no more tears” options.

What if the Your child may need surgery if the above treatment does not work. During treatment does not the surgery, an incision (cut) is made and the chalazion is drained. Even with surgery, the chalazion can come back or a chalazion can appear in work? another location. We try to avoid surgery because it can sometimes damage glands that are important for a healthy tear film. The tear film keeps the eye moist and protects it from injury and infection.

Seattle Children’s offers interpreter services for Deaf, hard of hearing or non-English speaking patients, family members and legal representatives free of charge. Seattle Children’s will make this information available in alternate formats upon request. Call the 1/21 Family Resource Center at 206-987-2201. This handout has been reviewed by clinical staff at Seattle Children’s. However, your child’s PE872 needs are unique. Before you act or rely upon this information, please talk with your child’s healthcare provider.

Patient and Family Education | Ophthalmology 2 of 2