How To Treat a Stye

A stye is a small swollen, painful mass generally located on the front margin of the eyelid. When an oil or sweat gland in an eyelash follicle becomes obstructed or infected it results in a stye. Styes, also known as external hordeolums are very common and can occur in individuals of any age. On occasional a small pimple can be seen on the under surface of the affected eyelid. A stye frequently resolves by itself without medical treatment; however, if it does not how do you treat a stye?

Apply warm compresses frequently to the affected eyelid. Do so at least four times a day for fifteen minutes.

Avoid the temptation to squeeze or pop the stye. This is a serious mistake and will drastically worsen the problem. Avoid any trauma to the eye if possible.

Keep the eyelid and lashes clean if there's any mucous or residual discharge. Using a washcloth in a gentle fashion is fine.

Leave your contact lenses out and skip the eye makeup for at least 5 to 7 days to avoid further eye irritation.

Take an OTC anti-inflammatory agent such as ibuprofen or naproxen to alleviate local tenderness and swelling. An OTC eye drop such as Stye Eye Relief can help reduce some of the eye irritation and discomfort.

See an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) if the stye fails to improve within several days. Usually an antibiotic eye drop or ointment will be prescribed to treat the infection. Occasionally oral antibiotics may be necessary.

A stye needs to be drained in the eye doctor's office if it fails to resolve after completing antibiotic therapy.

*  A stye that fails to resolve should be evaluated by a doctor since other eye problems such as a chalazion or dacryocystitis can be confused with it.