What are chalazions in children?

A chalazion is a slow-growing, painless lump in the eyelid that forms because of the blockage and swelling of an oil gland. It’s more common in adults between ages 30 and 50 than in children.

What causes a chalazion in a child?

A chalazion is caused by a blocked oil gland in the eyelid. This can occur after a viral infection, or with a skin problem such as seborrhea or acne rosacea.

Which children are at risk for a chalazion?

A child is more at risk for a chalazion if they have any of these:

• Viral infection

• Seborrhea

• Acne rosacea

• Chronic blepharitis

• Tuberculosis

These risk factors are more common in adults than children.

What are the symptoms of a chalazion in a child?

Symptoms can occur differently in different children. They can include:

• A small bump in the eyelid that can be felt

• Swelling of the eyelid over time

• Pain or trouble seeing

The symptoms of a chalazion can seem like other health conditions. Make sure your child sees their healthcare provider for a diagnosis.

How is a chalazion diagnosed in a child?

The healthcare provider will ask about your child’s symptoms and health history. They may also ask about your family’s health history. They will give your child a physical exam. Tests are not often needed to confirm the diagnosis.

How is a chalazion treated in a child?

Treatment will depend on your child’s symptoms, age, and general health. It will also depend on how severe the condition is.

A small chalazion may go away on its own in a few months without treatment. A large chalazion or an infection caused by it may need to be treated. Treatment may include:

• Applying warm, moist compresses to your child's eyelids for 15 minutes at a time, several times a day

• Telling your child not to rub their eyes or squeeze or rub the chalazion

• Having your child wash their hands often

• Antibiotic eye drops

If symptoms don’t get better, surgery may be needed to drain or remove the chalazion.

What are possible complications of a chalazion in a child?

If the chalazion becomes infected, the whole eyelid may become swollen and painful.

Key points about a chalazion in children

• A chalazion is a slow-growing, painless lump in the eyelid that forms because of the blockage and swelling of an oil gland. 

• If the chalazion becomes infected, the entire eyelid may become swollen and painful.

• A small chalazion may go away on its own in a few months without treatment.

• A large chalazion or an infection caused by it may need to be treated with warm compresses, antibiotic eye drops, or possibly surgical drainage or removal.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your child’s healthcare provider:

• Know the reason for the visit and what you want to happen.

• Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.

• At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new instructions your provider gives you for your child.

• Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help your child. Also know what the side effects are.

• Ask if your child’s condition can be treated in other ways.

• Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.

• Know what to expect if your child does not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.

• If your child has a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.

• Know how you can contact your child’s provider after office hours. This is important if your child becomes ill and you have questions or need advice.