Styes

A stye, or hordeolum, is a small bump that can appear on the outside or inside of the eyelid.

A stye develops from an eyelash follicle or an eyelid oil gland that becomes clogged from excess oil, debris or bacteria. Styes seem to be brought on by increased stress, but can also be a complication of another condition, called blepharitis.

Signs and Symptoms

• A small red, painful bump at the base of an eyelid
• A gritty sensation or a feeling that there is something in the eye
• excessive watering of the affected eye

Detection and Diagnosis

Diagnosis can usually be made upon visual inspection. If an abscess occurs, a culture of the pus is taken to identify the infectious agent.

Treatment

Often, self-care at home is adequate treatment. Applying a hot compress for 10 minutes three to four times daily may decrease any pain and the stye may resolve.

If a stye does not improve after 48 hours of home treatment, the stye may be opened and drained under sterile conditions in our office. An antibiotic (often an antibiotic ointment or eyedrops for topical use on the eye) may be prescribed.

Patients should not attempt to squeeze or "pop" styes themselves, as that may cause the infection to spread to a more serious location in the eye or eyelid.