Eyelids - Stye

A stye, or hordeolum, is a bacterial infection of a gland along the edge of the eyelid (usually near an eyelash follicle). The result is a small, itchy red bump at the lash line. Sties may eventually drain and heal on their own, usually in about one week. What Causes Styes? Styes are caused by staphylococcal bacteria. This bacterium is often found in the nose, and it's easily transferred to the eye by rubbing first your nose, then your eye.

The first step in easing your discomfort and encouraging the stye to drain is to apply a warm compress to the area, usually three to four times a day. This can help bring the pimple-like bump to a head. If the stye does not drain on its own, we can prescribe an antibiotic ointment. In some cases, we may use an alternate medication or oral antibiotics instead. Rarely, an in-office procedure is needed to physically drain and remove the stye.

You should never attempt to puncture or squeeze a stye, because this can spread infection and lead to further complications. Instead, if you do not find relief from warm compresses, see a Doctor. A stye itself is not usually a serious condition but, if left untreated, excessive irritation or complication could occur.