A stye is a common, often painful, red bump that forms along the edge of the eyelid, resembling a small pimple. This localized swelling occurs when an oil gland or a hair follicle on the eyelid becomes blocked and infected. While a stye itself is not directly contagious like a cold or the flu, the bacteria responsible for its formation can be transferred.
Understanding Stye Contagion
Styes are typically caused by bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus, which are naturally present on the skin and in the nose. A stye develops when these bacteria infect an oil gland (Meibomian gland or Zeis gland) or a hair follicle at the base of an eyelash.
A stye is a localized bacterial infection, not a transmissible disease in the way viruses spread. The pus and discharge within a stye contain the bacteria. If these bacteria are transferred from an infected eye to another person’s eye, there is a possibility of a new infection.
Bacterial transfer can occur through direct contact, such as touching a stye and then touching another person’s eye without washing hands. Indirect contact also facilitates transfer, for instance, by sharing towels, washcloths, or eye makeup. Even if the bacteria are transferred, developing a stye depends on various factors, including the recipient’s immune system, overall hygiene, and whether the bacteria find an entry point, such as a blocked gland.
Prevention and Care
Preventing styes involves good hygiene to minimize bacterial transfer to the eyes. Regular and thorough handwashing with soap and water is a fundamental step, especially before touching the face or eyes. Individuals should also avoid rubbing or touching their eyes excessively, as this can introduce bacteria and irritate the delicate eyelid skin.
Sharing personal items should be avoided. This includes not sharing eye makeup, makeup brushes, towels, or washcloths, as these can harbor bacteria and facilitate their transfer. Replacing eye makeup, particularly mascara and liquid eyeliner, every three to six months can also help reduce bacterial buildup. Removing eye makeup completely before sleep is also a beneficial practice.
For a stye that has already developed, home care can help it resolve. Applying warm compresses to the affected eyelid is a primary method of care. Soaking a clean cloth in warm water and holding it over the closed eye for 10 to 15 minutes, three to five times a day, can help the stye drain. The warmth helps to liquefy the contents of the blocked gland, promoting drainage and reducing discomfort.
Avoid squeezing or popping a stye, as this can push the infection deeper into the eyelid, spread the bacteria, or lead to more serious complications like cellulitis. Allowing the stye to drain naturally is the safest approach. If a stye does not improve within a few days, worsens, affects vision, or is accompanied by significant swelling, redness extending beyond the eyelid, or fever, seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can assess the stye and recommend further treatment, which might include antibiotics or professional drainage.