Stye

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a tiny, painful lump that forms near the edge of the eyelid or beneath the eyelashes. An inflammation of the oil glands of the eyelid causes this common and typically harmless illness. External (on the outer edge of the eyelid) or interior styes are possible (inside the eyelid).

Stye

Causes[edit | edit source]

Stye
Stye
External hordeolum

Styes are primarily caused by a bacterial infection, most commonly Staphylococcus bacteria, which enter the oil glands of the eyelid and infect them. Poor hygiene, such as touching the eyes with unclean hands or using contaminated cosmetics or cosmetic tools, can cause the illness

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Among the possible signs of a stye are:

  • A red, swelling, and painful lump on the eyelid.
  • ache or discomfort in the region affected
  • sensitivity to visible light
  • Irritated or wet eyes
  • Foreign body sensation in the eye 

Treatment[edit | edit source]

The majority of styes resolve spontaneously within a few days to a week. You can use the following self-care techniques to assist reduce pain and promote healing:

  • Apply a warm compress as follows: Soak a clean cloth or cotton ball in warm water, wring it out, and apply it to the stye for 10 to 15 minutes, three to four times a day. Warmth can help soften oil and pus, allowing the stye to drain and heal faster.
  • Keep good eyelid hygiene:"' Wash the affected area carefully with a light soap and warm water to keep it clean. Do not use cosmetics or contact lenses until the stye has completely healed.
  • Avoid popping or squeezing the stye: This may result in the infection spreading or worsening. Allow the stye to drain on its own
  • Nonprescription pain relievers:"' Use over-the-counter pain medicines such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen if the pain or swelling is severe.

See a doctor if the stye does not improve within a week or if it worsens. In certain instances, an eye doctor may need to drain a stye or administer antibiotic eye drops or ointments to cure the infection.

STYE that has burst and begining to drain

Prevention[edit | edit source]

To prevent blepharitis, adopt proper eye hygiene by:

  • Regular hand washing and avoiding contacting your eyes with unclean hands.
  • Taking off eye makeup prior to bedtime.
  • Regularly cleaning your contact lenses and lens container, and replacing them as directed.
  • Eliminating old or expired makeup and routinely cleaning makeup brushes.
  • Other recommendations for avoiding styes include:
  • Do not share cosmetics or cosmetic instruments. Sharing makeup, brushes, or applicators increases the chance of developing a stye or other eye infection by transmitting bacteria from one person to another.
  • Treat underlying conditions:"'If you have a condition such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) or rosacea, which can contribute to the development of styes, engage with your healthcare provider to successfully manage these conditions.
  • Don't rub your eyes:"' Increasing the likelihood of acquiring a stye, rubbing your eyes might introduce bacteria or irritants. If you must rub your eyes, wash your hands beforehand or use a clean tissue.
  • Consider using protective eyewear, such as goggles or wraparound sunglasses, when in a dusty, dirty, or windy environment to screen your eyes from irritants that could trigger a stye.
  • Keep a healthy diet:"'A food rich in vitamins and minerals can promote eye health overall. The consumption of foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can promote eye health.
  • Keep hydrated: Consuming sufficient water throughout the day will help maintain eye health and prevent dryness, which can lead to irritation and the development of styes.

By adhering to these rules and keeping regular eye care, you can lower your risk of acquiring styes and improve your eye health as a whole.

Stye Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD