Stye

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Other names for Stye

Hordeolum
Eyelid bump
Infected eyelid gland

Synopsis of Stye

A stye is a red, swollen, and often painful bump that forms on the edge of the eyelid, typically caused by a bacterial infection in an oil gland or hair follicle near the eyelashes. Most styes are external and resemble a pimple or boil, but some may form inside the eyelid. The condition is most commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus and is often associated with poor eyelid hygiene, touching the eyes with unwashed hands, or blocked oil glands. Styes usually resolve on their own within 7–10 days, but supportive care can ease discomfort and speed up healing.

Types:

  • External stye: Forms at the base of an eyelash follicle (more common)

  • Internal stye: Develops inside the eyelid in a meibomian gland (often more painful)

  • Chalazion: Not a stye, but a blocked gland that can be mistaken for one—usually painless and longer lasting

Common Causes:

  • Bacterial infection (usually Staphylococcus)

  • Touching or rubbing eyes with dirty hands

  • Use of old or contaminated eye makeup

  • Poor eyelid hygiene or excessive eye rubbing

  • Blepharitis (chronic eyelid inflammation)

  • Blocked oil glands in the eyelid

Severity Causes:

  • Repeated or untreated infections

  • Use of contact lenses without proper cleaning

  • Coexisting blepharitis or chronic skin conditions (e.g., rosacea)

  • Immune system suppression

  • Inappropriate use of topical steroids or antibiotics

When to See a Doctor:

  • Stye persists longer than 10 days

  • Rapid increase in size or spreads beyond eyelid

  • Significant swelling, vision changes, or pus discharge

  • Recurrent styes or development of a hard lump (may be chalazion)

  • Signs of spreading infection (fever, facial swelling, heat)

Natural remedies for Stye

Warm compress: Apply a warm, moist cloth to the eye for 10–15 minutes, 3–5 times a day. Helps drain the stye naturally by softening the blockage.

Aloe vera: Mild antimicrobial and soothing. Applying a small amount of aloe gel (kept away from the eye) may help reduce swelling and redness.

Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. Taken internally or made into a gentle paste for external use (avoid direct eye contact).

Tea tree oil: Diluted with a carrier oil, it may help combat bacteria and reduce recurrence when used carefully along the lash line (never in the eye).

Vitamin C: Boosts immune response to help the body fight off bacterial infection and promote tissue repair.

Zinc: Important for wound healing and immune support. Deficiency may increase susceptibility to skin and eyelid infections.

Proper hygiene: Wash hands frequently, avoid sharing towels or cosmetics, and cleanse eyelids gently with diluted baby shampoo or a mild cleanser.

Avoid squeezing: Do not attempt to pop or drain the stye—it can worsen infection or cause deeper tissue spread.