What is a stye?

A stye is an inflamed oil gland that forms along your upper or lower lash line or sometimes under your eyelid. Some people regularly develop styes while others rarely get them.

Styes are a common condition that many people experience throughout their life and can usually be easily treated at home. Styes vary in size and appear as a red, swollen, and tender bump near the edge of the eyelid.

What causes styes?

Certain things can increase your risk of developing styes. Touching your eyes without washing your hands, not disinfecting your contact lenses, and using old cosmetics can transfer bacteria to your eye.

In addition, individuals with blepharitis, which is chronic inflammation on the edge of the eyelid, are more likely to get styes.

How do I prevent getting styes?

– Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching the skin around your eyes or your eyelids.

– Avoid touching dirty towels to your eyes.

– Do not use old, expired, or contaminated cosmetics – bacteria can grow in old makeup.

– Regularly disinfect and clean contact lenses and make sure hands are cleaned before putting in your contact lenses.

What should I do if I get recurrent styes?

You should carefully clean off excess oils from around your eyelids. To do this:

– Put a few drops of baby shampoo into a cup of warm water and stir.

– Using a cotton swab or wash cloth, brush the soapy solution along the base of your eyelashes (keep your eyes closed).

– Do this for about 30 seconds per eye.

If stye problems persist or you notice styes reappearing in the same location talk with your doctor. Many doctors will prescribe antibiotic ointments to help with stye complications.