A stye typically arises from an infection in either an eyelid oil gland or eyelash follicle. Additionally, stress and hormonal fluctuations can contribute to its occurrence.
On the other hand, a chalazion occurs when there is blockage in a small portion of the eyelid known as the meibomian gland. It can also develop from a stye that has ceased being infected but has left hardened residue trapped within a gland.
This eye condition can start with a bacterial infection in the meibomian glands of the eyelids. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus epidermis and Staphylococcus aureus are located on the skin and can be swept into the glands when you rub your eyes. In addition, a chalazion can form following a case of blepharitis. Blepharitis is the chronic inflammation of the eyelids and almost everyone above the age of 60 has it. Individuals with rosacea have a higher risk of developing blepharitis upon rubbing the eyes.
A chalazion is sometimes confused with a stye which also appears as a lump in the eyelid. A stye is an acute inflammatory infection of a lash follicle and forms a red, sore lump near the edge of the eyelid. A chalazion is usually a reaction to trapped oil secretions and not caused by bacteria, although the site can become secondarily infected by bacteria. After the infection has been treated and cleared, the chalazion becomes a painless, aseptic lump of inflammatory reminence. Chalazions tend to occur farther from the edge of the eyelid than styes (although a gradual swelling can be felt near the edge of the lid), and tend to “point” toward the inside of nose side of the eyelid. Occasionally, a chalazion can cause the entire eyelid to swell suddenly.
In order to determine if there is an infection, if you apply pressure on the lump, you should feel pain. If there is no infection, there should be no sensation of pain.
