Should I be Concerned About a Bump on my Eyelid?

Bumps on the skin can vary widely in cause and significance, so whether you should be concerned depends on several factors like type and characteristic, duration and changes, and associated symptoms. If you are unsure what a change in your skin could mean, it is best to make an appointment with your doctor. You can book your appointment with Skyline Vision Clinic by calling 719-630-3937 or visiting WEBSITE. 

Eyelid bumps are generally caused by an infection in the eyelid oil gland or from an eyelash follicle. Sometimes stress or hormonal changes can also be a cause although eyelid bumps related to stress are not typically the same as acne. You can, however, contribute to various skin issues that influence eyelid bumps with such habits like rubbing eyes or poor hygiene that leads to styes or bacterial infections, exacerbating existing conditions like eczema or psoriasis, and the development of a chalazion, a painless bump on the eyelid caused by oil gland blockages versus clogged pores that cause acne.  

Examples of eyelid bumps include: 

1. Stye

• Description: A red, swollen and often painful bump on the eyelid, usually near the edge
• Cause: Infection of an oil gland or hair follicle at the base of an eyelash
• Symptoms: Pain, tenderness, redness, swelling and sometimes pus

2. Chalazion

• Description: A firm, painless bump that develops on the eyelid, typically further from the edge
• Cause: Blockage of an oil gland in the eyelid, leading to inflammation
• Symptoms: A slow growing lump that may not be painful but can cause mild discomfort and swelling

3. Cyst

• Description: A small, fluid sac that can appear on the eyelid
• Cause: Often caused by blocked glands or ducts
• Symptoms: Typically painless and soft to the touch

4. Milia

• Description: Tiny, white pearl-like bumps that can appear on the eyelids and around the eyes
• Cause: Keratin (protein that strengthens and structurally supports the skin) trapped beneath the surface of the skin
• Symptoms: Painless and usually found in clusters

5. Papilloma

• Description: Small, benign growths that can appear on the eyelid and look like tiny, wart-like protrusions
• Cause: Typically caused by human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Symptoms: Painless, though they can be bothersome depending on location

6. Xanthelasma

• Description: Yellowish, flat or slightly raised lesions that typically appear on the upper eyelid or around the eyes
• Cause: Deposits of cholesterol or lipids in the skin
• Symptoms: Usually painless but can be aesthetically concerning

7. Blepharitis

• Description: Inflammation of eyelid margins, which can cause red, swollen and sometimes crusty eyelid edges
• Cause: Often due to bacterial infection, seborrheic dermatitis or meibomian gland dysfunction
• Symptoms: Itching, burning and irritation

8. Allergic Reaction

• Description: Bumps or swelling due to allergic reactions showing as puffiness or localized hives
• Cause: Allergens such as pollen, dust or certain cosmetics
• Symptoms: Itching, redness and swelling

9. Dermatochalasis

• Description: Excess skin on the eyelid that may cause a sagging appearance
• Cause: Typically age-related or due to skin laxity
• Symptoms: Can lead to cosmetic concerns and sometimes affect vision if the skin obstructs the visual field

Generally, bumps on the eyelid are not a cause for concern. However, if you experience pain or vision changes, an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment by your doctor is recommended. If you have a bump on your eyelid, avoid touching it, apply a warm compress, keep the area clean, avoid makeup and contact lenses, monitor symptoms and if the bump persists for a week or more, seek medical attention.