Styes

Also known as a hordeolum or sty, a stye is a common condition in which a hair follicle or gland on the eyelid becomes blocked and infected, resulting in a painful swelling. The most common bacteria involved is Staphylococcus aureus.Stye symptoms:

The most common symptoms of a stye are;

Small, red, painful bump developing on the eyelid. A small, yellow spot may develop in the centre of the lump, which indicates the presence of pus. This is known as pointing. The swelling may burst, releasing the pus inside.

Other symptoms include;

• Tearing

• Sensitivity to light

• The swelling may lead to irritation of the eye

Stye treatment:

Most styes go away on their own within a week or so. However, the following methods may help.

• Hot compresses, applied for 5-10 minutes, several times a day can help relieve pain & speed up the healing.

• Over the counter pain medications can help relieve discomfort.

If the stye does not resolve itself within a week, a trip to the doctor will be necessary. They may prescribe ointment or oral antibiotics and/or lance the stye if necessary.

Do NOT:

Do NOT attempt to squeeze the stye. This will spread the infection.

Do not wear make up or contact lenses if you have a stye.

Do not touch the stye.

Do not share towels. Wash after every use.

Preventing styes:

• Do not share make up or make up tools.

• Discard old make up.

• Remove make up every night before bed.

• Do not rub the eyes.

• Do not touch your eyes with fingers.

Also see:

Conjunctivitis, Folliculitis

While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.