What is a Stye and how is it treated?

A stye is an inflamed, plugged eyelid oil gland. Essentially, it is an eyelid pimple. Styes cannot harm the eye, but they can be uncomfortable and often cause lid swelling and tenderness. There are no drugs, pills, ointments or drops that can make a stye go away. "Lancing" a stye that is red and inflamed is usually not recommended, as this can cause more inflammation. Warm compresses are the best treatment for a stye. The heat increases the circulation to the area, allowing blood cells to break down the stye. Heat a moist washcloth in the microwave for one minute, and apply it to the stye for 10 minutes, 3-4 times a day. If the stye comes to a head, gentle pressure can be applied to expel the discharge. The discharge will not harm the eye. Rarely, a stye can cause a mild tissue infection. If you doctor feels this is happening, an antibiotic pill may be prescribed.

What is a Chalazion and how is it treated?

A chalazion is a stye that did not come to a complete head. This firm, rubbery lump may stay in the eyelid for weeks to months. Most resolve on their own eventually. A chalazion will not damage the eye. It may occasionally feel tender. No drugs, pills, ointments or drops can make a chalazion go away. Warm compresses will usually help the chalazion resolve more quickly.

If the chalazion does not respond to the above measures, it can be "lanced" by your eye doctor. The eyelid is injected with local anesthesia, and then clamped while the chalazion is cut open and the contents removed. This treatment is entirely optional, and children and others who cannot hold still should not have this done as the chalazion is otherwise not harmful.