A white dot on the eyelid can be a common discovery. While many such occurrences are harmless, understanding their potential origins can help alleviate worry and guide appropriate action. This article provides general information on common eyelid bumps and when to seek medical advice. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace a consultation with a healthcare professional.
Common Types of Eyelid Bumps
Milia are tiny, pearly white cysts that frequently appear on eyelids and other facial areas. These small, dome-shaped bumps form when keratin, a skin protein, becomes trapped just beneath the skin’s surface. Milia are harmless and often resolve without intervention, though some forms might require treatment, particularly in adults.
A stye presents as a painful, red, pimple-like bump located along the eyelid edge near the eyelashes. It develops when an oil gland in an eyelash follicle or eyelid skin becomes blocked and infected by bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus. Styes can cause swelling, tenderness, and sometimes a yellow spot of pus.
A chalazion is a firm, non-tender lump that forms when an oil gland (meibomian gland) within the eyelid becomes blocked, causing oil to accumulate. Unlike a stye, a chalazion is not painful, though it may initially be tender. If a stye does not fully resolve, it can lead to the formation of a chalazion, where hardened material remains within the blocked gland.
Xanthelasma appears as yellowish-white, flat or slightly raised plaques, often found on the inner part of the eyelids, near the nose. These growths are caused by deposits of cholesterol under the skin. While xanthelasma itself is harmless, its presence can indicate underlying conditions such as high cholesterol levels, thyroid problems, or diabetes.
Sebaceous cysts are slow-growing, painless lumps that form under the skin when a sebaceous gland’s opening becomes blocked. These cysts can appear white or skin-colored and are filled with keratin and cellular debris. While they can occur anywhere on the body, they may develop on the eyelids due to blocked oil glands.
When to Seek Professional Medical Advice
While many eyelid bumps are benign and resolve on their own, certain signs indicate medical evaluation is needed. Persistent pain or tenderness in the bump, especially if it worsens, warrants a visit to a specialist. Any sudden changes in vision, such as blurriness, or vision impairment caused by the bump pressing on the eyeball, prompt immediate consultation.
Seek medical advice if the bump grows rapidly or changes in appearance, such as an unusual color. Worsening signs of infection, including increased redness, swelling, warmth, or pus, require attention. If the bump interferes with blinking, causes eye irritation, or does not improve after several days to a week of home care, consult a healthcare provider. Recurrent bumps, or any general concern about the eyelid’s appearance or discomfort, warrant professional guidance.
Managing Eyelid Bumps at Home
Applying warm compresses is an effective home management technique for many common eyelid bumps like styes and chalazia. Dampen a clean washcloth with warm water and hold it against the closed eyelid for 5 to 10 minutes, repeating this process several times a day. The warmth helps reduce inflammation, encourage blocked glands to drain, and promote healing.
Maintaining good eyelid hygiene is important for managing and preventing bumps. Gently cleaning the eyelids, especially if prone to conditions like styes or chalazia, can help prevent blockages and infections. This includes washing the face and removing eye makeup before bed, and washing hands thoroughly before touching the eyes or handling contact lenses.
While an eyelid bump is present, avoid wearing eye makeup and contact lenses to prevent further irritation or bacterial spread. Old or expired makeup should be discarded, and makeup brushes cleaned regularly to minimize bacterial contamination. Never squeeze or pop any eyelid bump, as this can worsen the condition, push infection deeper, or lead to complications.