Treatment of a chalazion will depend on the size and severity. In some cases, no treatment is required and the chalazion will clear up by itself. For mild cases, your G.P. will recommend the application of warm compresses several times a day. These compresses encourage drainage by softening the oils that are blocking the duct. If your G.P. recommends this as the best route then here’s what you do:
Wash your hands thoroughly and then wash your child’s hands also as he may rub his eyes.
Then hold your child on your lap, so he’s comfortable and apply a warm compress for ten to fifteen minutes for at least four times a day until the lump has gone away.
Use a clean washcloth with very warm water. Keep wetting the cloth to keep it moist and warm. Make sure to test the water so it’s not too hot.
Listening to a book aloud or reading to your child will help keep him entertained.
If your G.P. thinks your child has a secondary infection then she may recommend eye drops or antibiotic ointment for the affected area.
If the chalazion won’t go away, then your G.P. may refer you to an ophthalmologist for further treatment. The ophthalmologist may recommend steroid injections or surgery to remove the chalazion. If surgery is required, unless the chalazion is very large the ophthalmologist may recommend waiting until he is a certain age.
Find out more about complications of chalazion.
