Eyelid bump

I have a small white bump on my lower eyelid close to the tear duct.  What could this be?  Any treatment recommended?

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

If the white bump is tender and red, it could be an early stye. You should use warm compresses (warm moist washcloth held over the closed eye for 3-5 minutes). It will probably clear up faster if you see your family doctor or an ophthalmologist (Eye MD) for some antibiotics drops.

If it is not tender or red and the tissues not swollen much it might be a blocked oil gland. You can use warm compresses and get one of the over the counter eyelid cleaners. (Ocu-soft, TheraTears SteriLid Cleaner, Eye-Scrub).

If it get bigger and/or does not respond to this 'first aid' then see an ophthalmologist (eye physician) for a proper diagnosis.

JCH MD Eye Physician