Stye and Chalazion (eyelid lumps)
Also known as: stye, chalazion, eyelid lump, meibomian cyst
A stye is an infected eyelash follicle; a chalazion is a blocked oil gland lump in the eyelid. Both usually settle with warm compresses; persistent or infected ones need medical treatment. Chinese medicine treats wind-heat, stomach heat and spleen-damp patterns alongside lid hygiene.
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Lifestyle & Diet
- •Warm compresses 4 times daily for 10 minutes — most settle.
- •Never squeeze a stye.
- •Replace eye makeup regularly; keep lids clean.
- •Persistent lumps need examination — chalazia occasionally need drainage.
Cautions & Contraindications
- •Never needle an inflamed eyelid — distant points only.[]
When to reassess or seek care again
Review at 2 weeks: lump size, recurrence. Persistent lumps beyond 4 weeks need examination.
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Sources & Further Reading
Clinical guidance, red flags and safety notes on this page draw on the following current sources alongside the classical references above.
- NHS · 2024
- National Library of Medicine · 2024
- Healthdirect Australia · 2024
Educational reference for licensed practitioners. Not a substitute for individual clinical assessment. Refer to conventional care for any red-flag or undiagnosed presentation.