A stye, or hordeolum, is a small and painful lump that grows on the eyelids along the eyelash line. It is usually caused from infection by bacteria at the base of an eyelash follicle. Although it can cause great discomfort and distress sometimes, styes are generally not a cause for concern.
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Symptoms of a stye include:
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Swollen eyelids/a lump on the eyelid
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Pain/discomfort of the eye
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Redness/tenderness
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Crusting of the margin of the eyelids
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Discharge of mucus from the eye
Things to note:
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Eye styes typically do not cause vision problems
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Styes are contagious. They are caused by bacteria infection, and this can spread to others. To avoid spreading, keep your eyes and hands clean and do not share pillowcases, bedsheets, washcloths or towels with others.
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Most styes heal on their own within 1 to 3 weeks.
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Do not try to burst the stye yourself.
Home remedies and advices
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Hold a warm compress against your eye for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Do this 3 times a day. This will help to open up the blocked pores. You can use a small towel, submerged in very warm water (not too hot that it will hurt your skin). Make sure to keep your eye closed while doing this.
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Maintain the hygiene of the eye by gently washing the eyelid with water or clean by using a damp cotton wool pad or damp cotton bud. Do not use dry cotton wool or tissue as it may scratch the stye.
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Avoid wearing eye makeup or contact lenses until the stye has healed to avoid blocking the glands further.
If the stye persists or has affected quality of life, medical attention should be sought. The doctor may prescribe a topical antibiotic eye ointment or eye drop.
References:
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/220551#risk-factors
- https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/stye
- https://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/styes.htm
