Chalazion though is considered mostly a harmless condition but can cause many complications-
- Infection of Chalazion and Orbital Cellulitis: Chalazia are not infected in general. Accumulated fluid in Chalazion is sterile but sometimes it can get infected and that infection can rapidly spread in whole eyelids and eyes resulting in extreme redness, tenderness, swelling, etc. This can cause difficulty in opening the eyelid. It can lead to fever, chills, popping out of eyes, photophobia. This results in orbital Cellulitis which is a serious situation and needs immediate medical attention.
- Astigmatism: Pressure on cornea by a large Chalazion can cause Astigmatism. Astigmatism is the abnormal curvature of cornea. It can cause difficulty in proper vision. This can raise the need to go under knife.
- Recurrence: Mostly Chalazion once subsides will not come back but in few it may recur again and again.
- Loss of eyelash: Progressive Chalazion may lead to loss of eyelashes.
- Dry eye: Though rare but blockage of oil producing Meibomian gland can cause dry eyes. Since oil lubricates eye, multiple Chalazia are risks for dry eyes.
- Cosmetic problems: Lump on eyelid can cause significant cosmetic disfigurement of eyes and become a problem in appearance. Progressive Chalazion can lead to disfigurement of eyelids. Also healed Chalazion or surgery for its removal may leave scar on eyelid.
