Pediatrics - Chalazia
Introduction
A chalazion is an inflammation within the gland of the eyelid. It forms over several weeks and appears as a reddened lump or bump on the eyelid. A chalazion can cause eyelid tenderness and painful swelling. In some cases, chalazia can be treated at home. A doctor should treat a chalazion if home treatments fail or the condition gets worse.Anatomy
Causes
Symptoms
In some cases, chalazia can cause the eyes to produce more tears. Your child's eyes may be more sensitive to light than they were before. A large chalazion can cause astigmatism if it puts pressure on the cornea in your child's eye. Astigmatism causes blurred vision and eye discomfort.
Diagnosis
Treatment
You should contact your doctor if your child's chalazion does not respond to treatment, grows larger, or comes back. Your doctor can treat your child's chalazion with medication. In some cases, chalazia are surgically removed.
Prevention
Keeping your child's eyelid clean and dry may help promote healing. Your child should avoid wearing eye make-up if she develops a chalazion. Avoid “popping’ or squeezing a chalazion, this will only make the condition worse.Am I at Risk
Is My Child at Risk?
Risk factors may increase your child's likelihood of developing chalazia. Children with all of the risk factors may never develop the condition; however, the chance of developing chalazia increases with the more risk factors your child has. You should tell your doctor about your child's risk factors and discuss your concerns.
Risk factors for chalazia:
_____ Chalazia are more common in adults, although they can occur at any age.
_____ If your child has had a chalazion, he or she is at risk to have another one. It is common for chalazia to recur.
_____ Hormone increases in the teenage years or during pregnancy may contribute to chalazion formation.
_____ Poor eyelid hygiene increases the risk of chalazia.
_____ Seborrhea, chronic blepharitis, and acne rosacea are conditions that are associated with an increased risk for chalazia.
_____ It appears that stress is linked to chalazia, but that association is not clear.
Complications
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