Eye Lid Conditions

The eyelids physically protect and keep the surface of the eye and cornea moist, cleaned, and lubricated. Small Meibomian glands inside the eyelids secrete an oil through pores, as part of the tear film. The various muscles within our eyelids function to open and close our eyes, and blink.

Chalazion

The outer oily layer of our tear film is secreted by small Meibomian glands within the upper and lower eyelids. An eyelid chalazion occurs when a pore of a Meibomian gland becomes blocked and inflamed. The surrounding area becomes red and swollen.

Stye – Internal Hordeolum

The outer oily layer of our tear film is secreted by small Meibomian glands within the upper and lower eyelids. An eyelid internal stye or internal hordeolum occurs when a Meibomian gland becomes infected. The gland pore may become blocked and form an abscess with surrounding inflammation and swelling.

Stye – External Hordeolum

The small eyelash follicle oil glands of the eyelids are called Glands of Zeis or Moll. They may become infected in a common condition called an external stye or external hordeolum. The eyelid becomes swollen, inflamed, and painful. An abscess may form.

Summary

Any changes to your eyes, eyelids, or vision should be brought to your eye care provider’s attention immediately.