Concerning My Eye Situations
After browsing through YouTube and coming across videos that detailed the removal of milia, I felt compelled to try it myself. My self-esteem took quite a hit as the appearance of the bump near my eye resembled an enormous pimple just waiting to burst—though, in reality, it was something different entirely. Recently, I decided to take action using a lancet; I poked at the bump a few times. Armed with cotton swabs, I applied some pressure and was shocked to see a white substance emerge. Over a decade ago, a physician quoted me a cost of $1,000 for treating this area. Although I can't recall the specific term he used to describe it, he noted it was atypical for someone in my age group. I also shared my experience in a dermatology forum, where one inquiry mentioned high cholesterol, a condition I do not have. Currently, the only health condition I manage is high blood pressure, for which I take lisinopril daily. I stand at 5'6" and weigh 170 pounds, just in case that information is relevant. I'm really curious about this large bump near my eye and would like to know what the smaller spots on my other eye might be. Thank you for any insights!
Answers (1)
8/3/2025, 12:02:10 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're dealing with a concerning but common issue regarding skin bumps around your eyes, and it's understandable that this affects your self-esteem. The large bump you mentioned, which seems to have a white substance, is likely a type of skin cyst or milia, common conditions that can often appear near the eye area. Here’s an overview and steps to take.
Explanation:
-
What You've Described:
- Milia: These are small, white bumps that typically result from the buildup of keratin under the skin. They can resemble small cysts and are harmless.
- Cysts: The bump may also be a sebaceous cyst or another type of skin growth. It's important to note that any attempt to pop or lance these bumps by yourself can lead to irritation or infection, especially near the sensitive eye area.
-
Your Concerns:
- You referenced a prior medical consultation about the bumps being atypical for your age. While cysts and milia are generally benign, it is still important to monitor new or changing skin lesions, especially since they can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions.
Next Steps:
-
Stop Self-Treatment: Avoid further manipulation of the bump to reduce the risk of infection or scarring.
-
Gently Clean the Area: Use a mild cleanser (like a baby soap or a gentle facial wash) to keep the area clean without irritation.
-
Monitor Changes: Keep an eye on the bump and any smaller spots. Note any changes in size, color, or if new bumps appear.
-
Consider Gentle Skincare: Use non-comedogenic moisturizers and sunscreens to protect the area. Avoid heavy makeup near the eye.
-
Research Treatment Options: While you may want to avoid the high costs mentioned previously, topical treatments or minor procedures (like cryotherapy, laser therapy, or extraction by a dermatologist) can be effective for removal.
-
Consult a Dermatologist: If the bumps become bothersome, change, or if you have concerns about their appearance, it may be worthwhile to see a dermatologist, who can provide tailored treatment options.
Taking these steps should help you manage your concerns effectively. Please remember that it's essential to treat the area carefully, especially near your eyes. If you need any more specific recommendations or have further questions, don't hesitate to ask.
Related Questions
Confusing Biopsy Results: Should I Worry?
I’m a 39-year-old male with a healthy immune system, and for the past decade, I’ve dealt with a painful lump on the outer part of my left ear. Approximately seven years ago, I had it examined through a biopsy, which revealed it was benign and identified as chondrodermatitis nodularis helicis. Since there were no definitive treatment options aside from avoiding pressure—in other words, not sleeping on that side—I opted for a wait-and-see approach with occasional check-ups. Recently, about a month ago, I noticed that the top of this lump had started to darken. I consulted with my dermatologist, who appeared relatively unconcerned. Nevertheless, I requested a biopsy, which she agreed to, believing that a shave biopsy would clarify the situation. However, I received the results a couple of days ago, stating "atypical squamous proliferation with granulomatous tissue, present at all margins." The report also included a note from the pathologists indicating that the entire lesion was not visible, making it unclear whether cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma could be excluded. I have arranged for a follow-up biopsy, but I am contemplating whether I should advocate for a more proactive approach in my treatment. Rationally, I feel that I am taking the appropriate steps and acknowledge several factors that could support a calmer attitude—such as my relatively young age for this type of cancer, my previous diagnosis in this area, and the likelihood of having detected any potential SCC early. On the flip side, my anxious thoughts lead me to believe that this might signify a serious issue, pushing me to consider immediate, more vigorous surgical intervention. I would appreciate any perspectives regarding this situation and how concerned I should actually be about the findings in the report. Any guidance would be immensely helpful. Thank you!
Seeking Guidance After Chemotherapy
Greetings. I am reaching out for advice and assistance in creating a therapeutic strategy tailored to my unique medical circumstances. My case is quite complicated and lacks adequate support. I would greatly appreciate insights from healthcare professionals, researchers, or those with substantial personal experience in similar situations. **Overview:** **PRIMARY ISSUE:** **insomnia**—I have been completely unable to sleep for 72 hours. Following that, I manage to sleep for merely an hour without medication. This began at the start of 2024, after my fifth cycle of chemotherapy with "etoposide." I was monitored in the hospital for a month due to my sleeplessness, where the doctor concluded that I am psychologically stable but remains unsure about what aspect of the chemotherapy has impaired my ability to sleep. - Age: 18, with a BMI around 13 (I struggle to gain weight despite assistance). - Presently dependent on full parenteral nutrition (TPN based on SMOFlipid). - Previous chemotherapy history and episodes of hyperinflammation (HLH-DRESS), now in remission. - Experiencing **derealization, cognitive shutdown**, and dissociative episodes. - Treatment includes SSRIs/SNRIs, Trittico (cr/xr), and mirtazapine, which have exacerbated my insomnia. - Lab results show a very **low CRP (0.1)** but a heightened ESR (36), possibly indicating chronic inflammation or burden on my system. - There might be an issue with my **blood-brain barrier** (BBB). - I am using supplements such as CDP-choline, uridine, omega-3s, and occasionally gabapentinoids. - Previous medications tried include SSRIs, SNRIs, Trittico, Miansec, Mirtor, Tisercin, Ketrel, Chlorprothixen (which only worked briefly with pregabalin before tolerance developed), as well as pregabalin, gabapentin, Arketis, Pramolan, Esogno, and several Z-drugs, all of which were ineffective. I find benzodiazepines effective but prefer to avoid them; Ketrel is also not an option. **Key Challenges:** - Increased sensitivity to stimuli. - I struggle with oral intake; my dietary consumption is insufficient for maintaining my weight, a condition that worsened towards the end of 2024. - My mind feels overwhelmed, and I cannot find calmness, even when I am extremely fatigued. - Sedatives do not provide lasting benefits, often resulting in paradoxical effects or only temporary relief. - My responses to medications are unpredictable, leading me to believe there may be neuroinflammation or GABAergic issues contributing to my paradoxical responses. **What I Need:** I'm in the process of formulating a **ranked list of safe and effective treatments**—including pharmaceuticals, nootropics, and natural remedies—to target the following areas: - Facilitating **neurological repair** - Boosting **sleep drive and GABAergic balance** - Alleviating **neuroinflammation** (with emphasis on central, rather than peripheral) - Enhancing the integrity of the **BBB** and aiding in synaptic healing. **If any healthcare provider or research expert is willing to help me assess and prioritize potential treatments**, or if they could assist in establishing a logical progression for trials, it would be immensely appreciated. I find myself in a delicate and under-explored condition. I am open to sharing laboratory results and medical history. Thank you for your consideration.
Accelerating Colonoscopy Appointment for Ongoing Symptoms (UK, 29-Year-Old Male)
Hello everyone, I’m a 29-year-old man who moved to the UK from Eastern Europe. Earlier this year in January, I consulted with my general practitioner because I noticed blood on toilet paper, experienced persistent bloating, and observed changes in my bowel movements. After undergoing blood and stool examinations, the results appeared normal. My doctor recommended increasing my fiber intake, which initially alleviated my symptoms. Unfortunately, this summer, my condition deteriorated significantly. Now, in addition to the initial issues, I am experiencing swollen lymph nodes—two in my groin, one on my lower back, and a smaller one near my armpit. Throughout the summer, I have reached out to my GP 4 to 5 times for further evaluation. Additional blood tests, including assessments of liver and kidney function, returned normal results. Some healthcare providers suggested that hemorrhoids or an anal fissure might be the culprits. One of the GPs arranged for a stool sample test, which indicated the presence of H. pylori. I completed a week-long treatment with antibiotics; however, my symptoms worsened, and I began to notice blood daily for about a week subsequent to that. In follow-up stool tests, the results were: - FIT test: negative - Calprotectin: 114 I was subsequently referred for a colonoscopy, but I have been informed that the waiting period could be extensive. My current symptoms include: - Daily visibility of blood on toilet paper - Persistent abdominal bloating (constant) - Swollen lymph nodes that have lasted for months (in groin, back, and armpit) - Despite using Anusol, I continue to experience bleeding every one to two days I cannot afford to go private, so I am wondering if there are steps I can take to hasten my colonoscopy appointment. Would it be prudent to request an ultrasound of my lymph nodes in the meantime? I appreciate any guidance or suggestions you can offer. Thank you!
Understanding IBS Symptoms and Health Concerns
Age 35, Female, Height 173 cm, Weight 95 kg. Currently not taking any medications. A few years ago, I received a diagnosis of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but the details were rather vague regarding the condition and what steps I should take. Lately, I find myself increasingly anxious, fearing that my symptoms might indicate something more serious, like cancer, which is a common concern for many. What's troubling me is the difficulty in distinguishing between normal IBS symptoms and signs that might warrant greater concern. I have developed a noticeable swelling in my upper right abdomen, which has gradually increased over the past four to five years. This area often feels uncomfortable, accompanied by gas pains and a persistent burning sensation, although pressing on it doesn’t cause me pain. Additionally, I experience a feeling of fullness in my pelvis, particularly on the right side, extending to my right hip and lower back, with pain radiating in that hip area. I often feel much older than my actual age, exhausted in ways that seem inappropriate for someone who's only 35. My energy level has dropped significantly; I sometimes have to waddle when I walk and frequently find myself short of breath. Previously, I enjoyed physical activities like hiking and walking, but now I can barely muster the energy to do so. There's also a burning sensation in my chest and a feeling of tightness. Eating has become quite challenging due to swallowing difficulties, leading me to consciously choose foods that are less likely to cause choking. Over ten years ago, a past employer noted a distinctly fishy odor following my bowel movements. These days, my flatulence has garnered attention—I've overheard remarks about someone having an issue, and others have even hinted that there's a strong smell reminiscent of broccoli. I have noticed that my flatulence has a notably pungent odor similar to eggs and broccoli, and I suspect my burps might carry the same scent. When I was first diagnosed with IBS, I endured intense stomach cramps. Gas would build up, and when I finally managed to release it, I experienced severe spasms and considerable discomfort. I always believed that passing gas would bring relief, yet there were moments when the pain was so overwhelming that I would be rolling around in agony on my bed.
Concerns About Naegleria Fowleri Exposure
I’m a 19-year-old male, standing at 5'8". While I was taking a shower, a bit of water managed to enter my right nostril. It didn’t seem like a significant amount, as I didn't experience that typical burning sensation in my throat that often accompanies nasal water exposure. However, I did notice a slight feeling on the right side of my throat. Given this situation, could there be a potential risk of exposure to naegleria fowleri?