The upper and lower eyelids have many small glands inside them. These are called meibomian glands. They secrete oils that keep tears from evaporating too quickly and keep the surface of your eyes moist.
If your meibomian glands become blocked by thickened oils, your eyes will become dry and may feel irritated.
A blocked oil gland is more likely to get infected. This causes eyelid redness and swelling (blepharitis). Sometimes a stye or bump forms. This condition may take 6 to 12 months to clear up fully. Use the home treatments below to improve your condition.
Home care
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Apply warm water on a clean washcloth (a warm compress) to the eyelids for 10 to 20 minutes at least twice a day. This softens the oils in the glands and may relieve the blockage. After this treatment, wipe away scales from the lids and apply any prescribed medicine.
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Use lubricant eye drops (available without a prescription) if your eyes feel dry or burn.
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If the eyelids are swollen or red (inflamed), don’t wear eye makeup until the redness and swelling goes away. Use only hypoallergenic makeup.
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Unless told otherwise, stop wearing contact lenses until your condition improves.
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Wash your hands regularly. This helps reduce the chance of dirt and bacteria coming in contact with your eyelid.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised.
When to get medical advice
Call your healthcare provider right away if any of the following occur:
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Redness of the white part of the eye
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Red or swollen eyelids
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Eye pain or discharge
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Increased light sensitivity
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Change in your vision
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Fever of 100.4ºF (38ºC) or higher, or as directed by your provider
Online Medical Reviewer: Chris Haupert MD
Online Medical Reviewer: Tara Novick BSN MSN
Online Medical Reviewer: Whitney Seltman MD
Date Last Reviewed: 12/01/2022
© 2000-2025 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
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