Swollen & Sore Eyelid – What Could Be the Problem? Submitted by Atlanta Vision Cataract and Laser Center on October 20, 2016

If you wake up one morning, and discover your eyelid is red, swollen, and it kind of feels like someone punched you in the eye, should you be concerned or go see your eye doctor? This is actually one of the most common presenting conditions the ophthalmologists at Atlanta Vision Cataract & Laser Center Center see at their office in Atlanta, GA. There are 3 main conditions that could be causing the condition including bacterial infection, enlarged nodule on the eyelid or Blepharitis which is caused by a skin condition commonly known as seborrhea. Whatever the cause, it’s best to seek medical advice to keep your condition from worsening.

Stye

If you do indeed have a stye, you don’t need to worry about it affecting your vision. The condition occurs when an oil gland at the edge of an eyelid become infected. It can grow on either the outside or inside of your eyelid. It is caused by staphlococcal bacteria which is found in the nose and easily transferred to the eye when you rub your nose, and then your eye.

A stye can be contagious so you want to be careful not to infect someone else. Be sure and wash your hands, don’t share any items that might come in contact with others like washcloths, towels, and bed linens.

Chalazion

If a duct or oil gland within the upper or lower eyelid becomes blocked, a lump on the lid forms. A chalazion is not an infection but is an inflammation of the area. The gland involved in the formation of a chalazion is a modified oil gland that lies within the eyelid. There are about 30-40 of these glands within each of the upper and lower lids. These glands secrete oil into the tears. When one of these glands becomes blocked, it can increase in size and cause a visible lump.

A chalazion will typically resolve with warm compresses and keeping it clean with water and a gentle soap. If it does not resolve on its own you should consult tone of your eye doctors at Atlanta Vision Cataract & Laser Center Center.

Blepharitis

If your eyelids feel gritty, itchy and irritated, you may have Blepharitis. Symptoms are usually worse in the morning or at the end of the day. While the symptoms may be irritating, the condition is rarely serious.

Keeping your eyelid clean is the most important thing you can do to cure this condition. Your eye doctor at Atlanta Vision Cataract & Laser Center Center can recommend over the counter lid scrubs or other cleansing agents. They may also prescribe an antibiotic ointment.

If you have any concerns about your eyes, or are experiencing unusual symptoms with your eye or eyelids, feel free to call or schedule an appointment online.

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