Discovering an eyelid bump often raises questions about its origin. While frequently benign and self-resolving, these bumps can cause mild discomfort. Understanding common causes helps determine appropriate care.
Common Causes of Eyelid Bumps
A stye, or hordeolum, is a common eyelid bump caused by a bacterial infection in an oil gland or hair follicle along the eyelid margin. It typically appears as a red, tender, and painful lump, sometimes resembling a pimple with a pus-filled center. Styes can be external, forming at the base of an eyelash, or internal, developing deeper within an eyelid oil gland.
A chalazion is another common eyelid bump. It forms when a Meibomian gland, an oil-producing gland within the eyelid, becomes blocked, leading to a firm, non-infectious cyst. Unlike a stye, a chalazion is usually painless, though it can become red, swollen, and tender if it grows large enough to press on the eyeball, potentially causing blurry vision. A chalazion may sometimes develop after an internal stye has not fully drained.
Tiny, white, pearl-like cysts known as milia can also appear on the eyelids. These harmless bumps occur when dead skin cells or keratin become trapped beneath the skin’s surface. Milia are distinct from acne and generally do not cause pain or discomfort, though they can be a cosmetic concern. They are particularly common in newborns but can affect adults, sometimes linked to sun damage or certain skin conditions.
Yellowish, flat, or slightly raised patches on or around the eyelids may indicate xanthelasma. These deposits are accumulations of cholesterol under the skin, often appearing near the inner corners of the eyelids. While typically harmless, xanthelasma can sometimes signal underlying high cholesterol levels or other health conditions like diabetes or thyroid problems, making medical evaluation advisable.
Small, benign skin growths resembling skin tags, called eyelid papillomas, can also form on the eyelids. These growths are usually flesh-colored, pink, or dark brown and can be smooth or rough, sometimes attached by a stalk. They are often associated with age-related skin changes, while some forms might be linked to viral infections.
Home Care and Prevention
For many common eyelid bumps like styes and chalazia, warm compresses are a primary home care method. Applying a warm, moist washcloth to the affected eyelid for 5 to 10 minutes, three to six times a day, can help reduce inflammation and soften blockages. The warmth assists in bringing pus to the surface of a stye or loosening hardened oil in a chalazion, promoting natural drainage. Ensure the compress is warm, not hot, to avoid skin burns.
Maintaining good eyelid hygiene is an effective preventive measure against many types of bumps. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes or applying eye products. Remove all eye makeup completely before sleeping, as residual makeup can clog glands. Regularly cleaning eyelids with a mild solution, such as diluted baby shampoo, can help prevent oil and bacteria buildup, especially for those prone to recurrent bumps.
Avoiding certain habits can further reduce the risk of eyelid bumps. Refrain from squeezing or attempting to pop any bumps, as this can worsen the condition, spread infection, and potentially lead to scarring. Avoid wearing eye makeup or contact lenses until an eyelid bump has fully healed, as these can irritate the area or delay recovery. Replacing eye makeup, particularly mascara, every few months helps prevent bacterial contamination.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many eyelid bumps resolve with home care, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical evaluation. Consult a doctor if an eyelid bump becomes increasingly painful, red, or swollen, or if redness and swelling spread beyond the eyelid to other parts of the face. These symptoms could suggest a spreading infection requiring medical intervention.
Any changes in vision, such as blurriness or obstruction, due to an eyelid bump warrant immediate medical attention. A doctor should also assess bumps that are unusually large, growing rapidly, or interfering with normal eyelid function, such as opening or closing the eye. Such characteristics might indicate a more complex issue.
Frequent recurrence of styes or chalazia, even after successful home treatment, suggests an underlying predisposition that a healthcare provider can help manage. If a bump does not improve with consistent home care after a few days to a week, or if it persists for several weeks to months, seek medical advice. Any bump that appears unusual, bleeds, or changes in shape or color should also be examined by a doctor to rule out more serious conditions.