Stye and chalazion: symptoms and treatment

What is a stye?

Styes are bacterial infections in the oil gland or hair follicle on your eyelid, which causes them to get clogged. They’re quite common and should clear up on their own within a couple of weeks.

What is a chalazion?

A chalazion is a small, slow-developing lump or cyst on the eyelid. They are usually not painful and tend to only last a couple of weeks.

Can you have both a stye and a chalazion?

A stye is smaller, more painful and more tender to the touch than a chalazion. A stye can develop into a chalazion after several weeks.

Is there a treatment available for stye and chalazion?

You may be prescribed an ointment or another treatment plan however, this condition usually resolves itself.

You should avoid wearing contact lenses and any eye make-up until the eye has completely healed. It is really important that you do not try to burst or remove the eyelash yourself as this could cause further infection.

How do I get help?

If you experience a stye and chalazion, you should contact your doctor or visit your local pharmacy.