A stye and chalazion are forms of inflammation that can occur if a gland along the edge of the eyelid becomes inflamed. Once inflamed, the eyelid can become swollen. If bacteria cause the swelling, the inflamed area of the eyelid can worsen quickly and painfully. When this happens, it is referred to as a stye, a pus–filled swelling on the eyelid caused by an infection.
A chalazion is a different type of eyelid inflammation and can sometimes be referred to as a meibomian cyst. This type of inflammation develops slowly and typically without any pain. It occurs after an oil gland becomes inflamed for a prolonged period. This is usually because a gland has become blocked, not because bacteria are involved. When the edge of the eyelid is blocked or infected with bacteria, surgery may be required depending on the severity. Thankfully, there are common treatments for styes/chalazion that can help people find pain relief or prevent surgery.
Primary Differences
Although a stye and a chalazion appear alongside inflammation and swollen eyes, there are a few key differences between the two. For instance, when bacteria infect a gland in the eyelid, styes may form. A chalazion can develop when an oil gland of the eyelid becomes blocked. Although inflammation typically dissipates, surgery may be needed if a chalazion or stye does not heal on its own.
Styes are painful. As pus collects inside the swelling of the eyelid, a yellow growth the size of a pea can appear. The stye is typically located near the eyelashes. Chalazions do not have pus but can cause swelling and be bothersome. While they are different, chalazions and styes have certain similarities, including that both can develop on either the upper or lower eyelid.
Causes of Styes and Chalazions
According to the National Library of Medicine, styes can be caused by a variety of reasons. Chalazions also have specific causes and treatment options.
Some of the reasons styes develop include:
- Allergies
- Poor hygiene
- Contact lens use
- Stress
- Leftover makeup
- Diabetes
- Diseases that weaken the immune system
- Hormonal fluctuations
- Skin diseases such as rosacea
As for chalazions, they may be caused by the following:
- Blocked oil gland
- Inflammation that persists for a long period of time
- Oil buildup, creating hard and inflamed tissue.
- The creation of granulation tissue
- Chronic skin condition
Although both are similar and can greatly impact eyelids and sometimes vision, they can be easily treated if caught in time. If a stye becomes large, surgery may be required. However, surgery downtime is minimal.
Effects of Styes and Chalazions
Certain effects can take place due to the presence of styes or chalazions:
- Inflammation from a stye can spread to the eye socket, creating complications.
- When styes do not go away, they can develop into a chalazion.
- A stye and chalazion are diagnosed based on their appearance.
- A chalazion may present as an inflamed area, but when pressed against, there is no pain, unlike a stye.
- Staphylococcus bacteria can cause styes.
Swab tests, blood tests, and tissue examinations may take place if eye doctors believe the infected area to be cancerous. Doctors may also want to perform exams if you have a weakened immune system. If your eyelid inflammation persists, consider scheduling an appointment with an eye doctor right away.
Find Treatment Today
At Kwitko Eyelid Surgery, we provide a range of treatments for those suffering from any afflictions that affect the eyelids. Dr. Kwitko has a long, extensive history in providing a wide range of treatment options for patients.
Consider scheduling a consultation with our eyelid surgeon to learn more about your condition and whether surgery is needed. Speak with one of our professionals today.
