Eye Plastic Associates - January 2024

How to Manage Styes and Recurring Chalazions PAINFUL BUMPS OR PAINLESS LUMPS?

Two eye conditions often confused due to their similar presentation are chalazion and styes. While both involve eyelid inflammation and even have similar treatments, their causes are quite different.

on the eyelid. A chalazion is almost like a balloon under the skin. These lumps are typically larger than styes, and oftentimes those who get a chalazion are more likely to develop another. Potential causes for recurring chalazion include skin conditions like acne rosacea or other systemic conditions like diabetes. Treatment for a stye often involves warm compresses applied to the affected eyelid to encourage drainage of the pus and promote healing. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics if the infection is significant. Chalazions, however, require a slightly different approach. Warm compresses are beneficial for easing any mild discomfort and aiding drainage, but they may need more time to resolve. Persistent cases might necessitate medical/surgical intervention, such as steroid injections or an incision and drainage performed by a professional. Additionally, Dr. Scott typically recommends improving your oil intake and consuming more omega 3 oils (fish oil) and less omega 6 oils (canola oil, sunflower, safflower soy, sesame, and corn oils). You can often find omega 6 oils in your favorite grocery store salad dressings. If you experience persistent chalazions, consulting with an eye care professional will help you manage this condition. Our team can provide tailored guidance, perform procedures to expedite the healing process, and help prevent future chalazions with cleansers like Avenova Eyelid Spray or Ocusoft Lid Scrub.

A stye, also known as a hordeolum, occurs when an oil gland at the base of an eyelash or close to the lashline becomes infected. This infection results in a painful red bump on the eyelid, often accompanied by swelling and tenderness. Styes can

be external, forming along the lashline, or internal, developing inside the eyelid. Meanwhile, a chalazion is not caused by an infection but by the blockage of an oil gland. When the gland is obstructed, the oil it produces accumulates within the eyelid itself, typically causing a painless, firm lump

The new year is all about new and fresh beginnings. So, why not start the year with a quick, refreshing meal that is both flavorful and nutritious? BELL PEPPER SANDWICH Inspired by HungryHobby.net

INGREDIENTS

1 medium bell pepper, any color 2–3 tbsp cream cheese

1 1/2 oz Swiss cheese, thinly sliced

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1/2 small cucumber, cut into 6–8 thin slices 2 tbsp guacamole or a few slices of avocado

1 tsp whole-grain mustard 2 oz ham (or other deli meat), thinly sliced

Dash of salt and pepper

“He who works with his hands is a laborer. He who works with his hands and his head is a craftsman. He who works with his hands and his head and his heart is an artist.” –St. Francis of Assisi

DIRECTIONS

1. On a cutting board, remove the stem of the bell pepper with a sharp knife. Cut the pepper in half lengthwise and remove the ribs and seeds. 2. Lay the pepper halves on the cutting board and spread cream cheese inside each half. Spread whole-grain mustard on top of the cream cheese. 3. Layer your deli meat, cheese, cucumbers, and guacamole on each bell pepper half. Add a dash of salt and pepper, then combine both halves and serve!

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