Stye 101: Your Guide to Beating Eye Styes Fast

A stye is an inflamed oil gland or hair follicle on the eyelid. It typically forms when bacteria, most often Staphylococcus aureus, infects an oil gland at the base of an eyelash or inside the eyelid. This infection results in a red, swollen, tender bump that can fill with pus.

There are two types of styes:

External: These happen on the outside part of the eyelid and are the most common. They usually begin as a small pimple next to an eyelash and can become red and swollen.

Internal: These happen inside the eyelid when an oil-producing gland gets infected. They may be less visible but can be more painful.

Styes are different from chalazia, which are painless lumps caused by blocked oil glands but without infection.

Styes are usually caused by bacterial infections, particularly from Staphylococcus bacteria. Some factors can increase the likelihood of developing a stye:

• Poor eyelid hygiene
• Touching your eyes with unwashed hands
• Using old or contaminated makeup
• Not removing makeup before sleeping
• Wearing contact lenses without proper cleaning
• Chronic conditions like blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids)

Usually, localized eyelid pain, swelling, and redness are the initial symptoms. Other typical signs and symptoms include:

• A small, painful lump on the eyelid
• Swelling of the entire eyelid
• Tearing or watery eyes
• Crust forming on the eyelid margin
• Sensitivity to light
• A feeling of something in the eye

It may come to a head and release pus, after which symptoms usually improve quickly.

Most styes will heal on their own within a few days to a week. However, there are several home remedies and treatments that can help speed up the healing process and relieve discomfort:

Warm Compress

Apply a warm, damp washcloth to the affected eye for 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times a day. The heat helps soften and encourages drainage of the pus, reducing swelling and pain.

Good Hygiene

Keep the affected eye clean. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes. Do not try to squeeze or pop, as this can spread the infection or worsen inflammation.

Over-the-Counter Treatments

There are topical antibiotic ointments available at pharmacies. Use them only if recommended by a healthcare provider. Pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can also help with discomfort.

Avoid Eye Makeup and Contact Lenses

Stop using eye makeup and contact lenses until fully healed to prevent further irritation or contamination.

Although most styes are harmless and resolve on their own, you should consult a healthcare provider if:

• The stye doesn’t improve within a week
• The swelling becomes severe or spreads
• Your vision is affected
• You develop multiple styes
• The stye keeps coming back

In some cases, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics or, if necessary, perform a minor procedure to drain the stye.

Prevention is largely a matter of hygiene. Here are some simple tips:

• Wash your hands before touching your face or eyes
• Clean your eyelids gently with a mild cleanser or baby shampoo
• Remove all eye makeup before going to bed
• Replace eye makeup regularly, especially mascara and eyeliner
• Avoid sharing cosmetics or eye products
• Keep your contact lenses clean and follow proper care instructions

A stye can be an annoying and uncomfortable experience, but with proper care and attention, it’s usually nothing to worry about. By practicing good eye hygiene and recognizing the symptoms early, you can manage styes effectively and reduce the risk of recurrence. If in doubt, or if symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice.

Your eyes are sensitive and essential—taking good care of them is well worth the effort.

Suffering from frequent eye styes? Book an appointment with our eye doctor in Crystal Lake and Algonquin, IL, Dr. Jeffrey Porter and his associates, to get a comprehensive eye exam.

Our optometrists in Crystal Lake and Algonquin, IL are dedicated to providing exceptional eye checkups to residents of Crystal Lake, Algonquin, Illinois, and surrounding areas. 

Contact us:

Walmart Vision Center Crystal Lake, IL

815-477-4053

Walmart Vision Center Algonquin, IL

847-458-5796

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