Stye Treatment

A stye (or hordeolum) is an acute bacterial infection of the eyelid that occurs when one of the tiny oil glands becomes blocked by skin cells, debris, or makeup residue. There are two main types:

• External stye: Forms at the base of the eyelash or near the edge of the eyelid when the outer oil glands or hair follicles are infected.
• Internal stye: Develops deeper inside the eyelid when a meibomian gland becomes blocked and inflamed.

Both types cause localized eyelid pain and swelling and can appear as a painful lump filled with pus.

A stye differs from a chalazion, which is a firm, usually painless cyst caused by chronic blockage—not infection—of an oil gland. While a stye may evolve into a chalazion once the infection clears, chalazia are typically not red, tender, or caused by bacteria.

A stye itself isn’t highly contagious, but the bacteria that cause it can spread through direct or indirect contact. You can reduce the risk of spreading Staphylococcus aureus by avoiding:

• Poor hand hygiene: Rubbing your eyes with unwashed hands transfers bacteria to the eyelids.
• Shared personal items: Towels, washcloths, or pillowcases can harbor bacteria.
• Contaminated eye makeup: Mascara and eyeliner can trap bacteria and clog oil glands.
• Reused or poorly cleaned contact lenses: Lenses and cases can carry bacteria if not disinfected properly.
• Close contact with someone who has an eye condition or active eye infection.

Although styes rarely lead to a medical emergency, keeping your hands and eyelids clean helps stop bacterial spread and shortens recovery time.

Daily habits can go a long way toward reducing the risk of future styes:

• Wash your hands frequently. Avoid eye rubbing or touching your face without washing first.
• Remove makeup before bed. Sleeping with makeup clogs oil glands and traps bacteria.
• Replace mascara and eyeliner every 3–6 months. Older makeup can harbor germs.
• Clean contact lenses properly. Follow lens-care instructions and replace cases often.
• Manage chronic health conditions. Blepharitis, rosacea, and seborrheic dermatitis make you more prone to eyelid irritation—your healthcare provider can help you keep them under control.
• Support your immune system through rest and good nutrition. This can help your body resist bacterial infection and recover faster if a stye develops.

These small routines help prevent future flare-ups and keep your eyelids healthy.

A stye typically develops quickly, often over 1–2 days. Symptoms can be grouped into three main categories:

1. Localized symptoms

• Painful red bump on the eyelid margin or inside the lid
• Eyelid pain and swelling
• Tenderness to touch
• Visible pus-filled spot or small yellow center

2. Irritation and drainage

• Tearing and watery eyes
• Crusting along the eyelid margins
• A feeling like there’s something in your eye
• Light sensitivity

3. Systemic or spreading signs (less common)

• Worsening redness or swelling beyond the eyelid
• Difficulty opening the eye fully
• Fever or spreading inflammation, which may suggest preseptal cellulitis (urgent, needs prompt antibiotics) or orbital cellulitis (a medical emergency)

If symptoms persist beyond a week or worsen, connect with an online doctor for guidance.

Most styes improve within 7–10 days, but some cases need medical attention. See a 24hrdoc online doctor if:

• The stye lasts longer than 7–10 days
• The stye keeps coming back (recurrent)
• Eyelid swelling becomes severe or spreads
• You experience vision changes
• The stye becomes a chalazion (hard, painless lump)

Early online stye treatment prevents complications and can ease discomfort quickly.

Although most styes heal naturally, professional guidance ensures faster, safer recovery.

Warm compress: Apply a clean, warm (not hot) compress to the closed eyelid for 10–15 minutes, 3–4 times a day. The warmth softens oil buildup and helps drainage.

Eyelid hygiene: Clean the lash line gently using diluted baby shampoo or commercial eyelid wipes. This keeps oil glands clear and reduces bacterial load.

Avoid squeezing or popping: Doing so can spread infection or cause scarring.

Prescription medication: If your online assessment shows that the infection needs treatment, your 24hrdoc provider can prescribe medication. Depending on the severity, your personalized treatment may include:

• Antibiotic ointment or antibiotic eye drops to target local infection
• Oral antibiotics if swelling is spreading beyond the eyelid

Your healthcare provider will create a treatment plan customized to your symptoms and underlying health conditions.

Along with prescribed medications, these treatment options can help soothe irritation and promote healing:

• Warm compress: Continue several times daily until the stye drains and heals.
• Pain relief: Use over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to ease tenderness.
• Pause eye makeup and contact lenses: Avoid until the stye fully clears.
• Keep eyelids clean and dry: Gently wipe away any crusting with a clean cloth or sterile pad.
• Rest your eyes: Give your eyelids time to recover by limiting screen use if swelling or light sensitivity persists.