Blepharitis Styes Chalazions

Blepharitis, Styes, and Chalazions: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

At VisionPadilla Ophthalmology Clinic, we understand how bothersome eyelid problems such as blepharitis, styes, and chalazion can be. These conditions are common and, although not usually serious, can cause irritation, pain, and even affect vision if not treated properly.

1. What is Blepharitis?

Blepharitis is a chronic inflammation of the eyelid margin, where the eyelashes originate. It is one of the most common eye conditions and can be associated with:

Excess bacteria (especially Staphylococcus).

Meibomian gland dysfunction (which produces the fatty layer of tears).

Seborrheic dermatitis or ocular rosacea.

Symptoms of Blepharitis

🔴 Redness and swelling of the eyelid

🔴 Itching and burning

🔴 Gritty sensation in the eyes

🔴 Crusting or flaking of the eyelashes (like dandruff)

🔴 Watery or dry eyes

Treatment of Blepharitis

🟢 Daily cleaning of the eyelids with eye wipes or diluted baby shampoo.

🟢 Warm compresses to open clogged glands.

🟢 Antibiotic drops or ointments (if there is a bacterial infection).

🟢 Treatment of rosacea or dermatitis, if present.

2. What is a stye?

A stye (or hordeolum) is an acute infection of the eyelid glands, usually caused by bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus).

Types of Styes

External stye: Inflammation at the base of the eyelash (similar to a pimple).

Internal stye: Infection of the meibomian glands (more painful).

Stye Symptoms

🔴 Red, painful lump on the eyelid

🔴 Swelling and tenderness to the touch

🔴 Tearing and sensitivity to light

🔴 Sometimes yellowish discharge (pus)

Stye Treatment

🟢 Warm compresses (3-4 times a day) to help drain it.

🟢 Gentle massage to loosen the blockage.

🟢 Topical antibiotics if it doesn't improve within 48 hours.

🟢 Avoid squeezing or popping it (it can worsen the infection).

3. What is a Chalazion?

A chalazion is a painless lump on the eyelid caused by a chronic obstruction of a meibomian gland. Unlike a stye, it is not an active infection, but rather a granulomatous inflammation.

Symptoms of a Chalazion

🔴 Firm, painless nodule on the eyelid

🔴 Mild swelling and redness

🔴 Blurred vision if it presses on the cornea

Treatment for a Chalazion

🟢 Warm compresses and massage (may resolve within weeks).

🟢 Corticosteroid injection (if it persists for more than 1 month).

🟢 Surgical drainage (in large or recurrent cases).

4. How to Prevent Blepharitis, Styes, and Chalazia?

✔ Daily eyelid hygiene (cleaning with specialized products).

✔ Avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands.

✔ Diet rich in omega-3s (helps support meibomian gland function).

✔ Treat associated conditions (rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis).

When to See an Ophthalmologist?

If the stye or chalazion does not improve in 2-3 weeks.

If there is severe pain, blurred vision, or fever.

If blepharitis symptoms affect quality of life.