A stye is a common eye condition, and a cold is a frequent viral infection. This article explores whether a cold can influence the development of a stye.
Understanding a Stye
A stye, medically known as a hordeolum, presents as a red, painful bump typically found along the edge of the eyelid. It often resembles a pimple and can be tender to the touch. Styes form when a tiny oil-producing gland in an eyelash follicle or the eyelid itself becomes blocked, leading to a bacterial infection. The bacterium most often responsible for these infections is Staphylococcus. Common symptoms include localized swelling, redness, and discomfort, sometimes accompanied by a feeling that something is in the eye, light sensitivity, or tearing.
Understanding a Cold
The common cold is a viral infection primarily affecting the nose, throat, sinuses, and windpipe. It is caused by various viruses, with rhinoviruses being the most frequent culprit. Symptoms usually appear within two to three days of exposure and commonly include a stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, sneezing, and sometimes a mild cough or low-grade fever. Colds are highly contagious and spread through airborne droplets from coughing or sneezing, or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face.
The Link Between Colds and Styes
A cold does not directly cause a stye; colds are viral, while styes are bacterial infections. However, having a cold can indirectly increase susceptibility to developing a stye. A cold can temporarily weaken the immune system, making the body less efficient at fighting off other infections, including Staphylococcus bacteria.
Individuals with a cold often touch or rub their eyes and nose more frequently due to irritation or discharge. This increased contact can easily transfer bacteria from the hands or nasal area to the eyelids, infecting blocked oil glands. Poor hand hygiene, common when unwell, further contributes to this risk.
Treating a Stye
Most styes can be managed with self-care at home. Applying warm compresses is a primary recommendation, helping to reduce swelling and encourage the stye to drain naturally. A clean washcloth soaked in warm water should be held on the closed eyelid for 10 to 15 minutes, repeated three to five times daily. Gentle cleaning of the eyelid with mild soap, such as diluted baby shampoo, can also be beneficial.
It is important to avoid squeezing or trying to pop a stye, as this can spread the infection. During the healing period, it is advisable to refrain from wearing eye makeup and contact lenses to prevent further irritation or contamination. Medical attention should be sought if a stye does not improve within a few days, grows rapidly, affects vision, or if redness and swelling spread beyond the eyelid into the face.
Reducing Your Risk
Preventing styes involves maintaining good hygiene, particularly around the eyes. Frequent hand washing is important, especially before touching the face or handling contact lenses. Avoiding touching or rubbing the eyes can also minimize bacterial transfer to the eyelid.
For contact lens wearers, proper cleaning, disinfection, and adherence to replacement schedules are important. Removing eye makeup completely before bed and discarding old eye products, such as mascara and eyeliner every two to three months, helps prevent bacterial growth and clogged glands. Maintaining overall health through adequate sleep and managing stress can also support a healthy immune system, making one less susceptible to infections like styes.