A stye (medically termed a hordeolum) is a common eye condition that presents as a tender, red bump along the edge of the eyelid. This painful lump resembles a small boil or pimple, developing when a gland in the eyelid becomes infected. While generally harmless and often resolving on its own, the discomfort frequently leads to concerns about whether the infection can be spread to others.
The Core Answer: Are Styes Contagious?
Styes are not contagious in the same way a cold or the flu is, meaning the condition does not spread through the air. A stye is a localized bacterial infection, and the bacteria, primarily Staphylococcus aureus, are transmissible only through direct contact.
Staphylococcus bacteria naturally colonize human skin. Transmission occurs when bacteria from the infected stye are physically transferred to a person’s hands and then to another person’s eye or face. This transfer often happens through high-risk hygiene activities, such as rubbing the affected eye and then immediately touching another person.
Sharing personal items that contact the eye area is also a major concern. This includes towels, washcloths, pillowcases, and eye makeup, which can harbor the bacteria. Strict hand hygiene and avoiding the sharing of these items prevent bacterial transfer.
What Causes a Stye to Form?
A stye is the result of an acute bacterial infection following the blockage of specialized oil glands within the eyelid. The eyelid contains glands, such as the sebaceous glands of Zeis and the deeper meibomian glands, which produce an oily substance to lubricate the eye. When the duct of one of these glands becomes clogged with dead skin cells, old oil, or debris, the oil cannot drain.
This blockage creates a stagnant, oil-rich environment ideal for bacterial proliferation, typically by Staphylococcus aureus. The bacteria multiply rapidly within the clogged gland, leading to an acute inflammatory response. This process results in the formation of pus, which is a collection of dead cells and bacteria.
The resulting abscess forms the red, tender, and swollen lump characteristic of a stye. An external stye affects the glands near the eyelash base, while an internal stye involves the deeper meibomian glands.
Managing a Stye and When to See a Doctor
Managing a stye involves consistent self-care measures aimed at promoting drainage of the infected gland. Applying a warm compress is the cornerstone of home treatment, as the heat helps liquefy the stagnant oil and encourages the stye to drain naturally. Apply a clean washcloth soaked in warm (not hot) water to the closed eyelid for 5 to 10 minutes, repeated three to six times a day.
Resist the urge to squeeze or pop the stye, as this action can push bacteria deeper into the eyelid tissue, potentially spreading the infection. Maintaining meticulous hygiene is necessary to prevent recurrence or bacterial transfer. This includes frequent hand washing and avoiding eye makeup or contact lens use during the active infection. Dispose of any contaminated eye makeup.
While most styes resolve within a week or two, certain signs warrant prompt medical attention. See a healthcare provider if the stye does not improve within a week of home treatment or if it worsens. Seek immediate care if the redness or swelling spreads beyond the eyelid to the cheek or face, if you experience changes in vision, or if the stye is bleeding. These symptoms can indicate a more serious condition, such as orbital cellulitis, which requires professional treatment.