A stye is a common, often painful, red lump that forms near the edge of the eyelid. It resembles a small pimple or boil and can be tender to the touch. This article explores the direct causes of styes, how stress might indirectly influence their development, and strategies for managing them.
What Causes Styes
Styes primarily result from a bacterial infection, most commonly by Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria naturally present on the skin. This infection occurs when an oil-producing gland in the eyelid, such as a meibomian gland or a hair follicle at the base of an eyelash, becomes blocked. The blockage traps bacteria, leading to inflammation and the characteristic painful lump.
External styes form on the outer part of the eyelid, typically from an infected eyelash follicle. Internal styes develop within the meibomian glands inside the eyelid. Their blockage creates an environment where bacteria can multiply. Poor hygiene, such as touching the eyes with unwashed hands or using contaminated eye makeup, can introduce bacteria and increase the risk of blockages and subsequent infections.
How Stress Might Influence Styes
While stress does not directly cause the bacterial infection that forms a stye, it can indirectly increase susceptibility. Stress can weaken the immune system, making the body less effective at fighting off infections. When the immune system is compromised, bacteria may more easily lead to an infection in the eyelid’s glands.
Chronic stress can also lead to changes in daily habits that raise the risk of styes. Individuals under stress might rub their eyes more frequently, transferring bacteria from their hands to their eyelids. Disrupted sleep patterns can further lower immunity. Neglecting eye hygiene, such as not removing eye makeup thoroughly, also contributes to stye formation.
Home Remedies for Styes
Most styes resolve on their own within one to two weeks with home care. Applying warm compresses encourages drainage and reduces discomfort. A clean washcloth moistened with warm water should be held against the closed eyelid for 10 to 15 minutes, three to five times a day. The warmth helps soften the stye, promoting natural drainage.
Maintaining good eyelid hygiene is important. Gently cleaning the eyelids with a mild solution, such as diluted baby shampoo or specialized eyelid wipes, can help prevent further blockages and infections. Avoid squeezing or attempting to pop the stye, as this can spread infection or lead to complications. Refraining from wearing eye makeup or contact lenses until the stye has fully healed can prevent irritation and bacterial contamination.
When to Consult a Doctor
While many styes clear up with home treatment, certain signs warrant a medical consultation. If a stye does not improve after a few days of consistent home care, or if it worsens in pain, swelling, or redness, seek medical attention. Increased swelling that causes the eyelid to swell shut, or the development of blisters on the eyelid, also warrant a doctor’s visit.
Consult a healthcare provider if the stye begins to affect vision, if pus or blood leaks from the bump, or if the infection spreads to other parts of the face. Frequent recurrence of styes may indicate an underlying condition, such as blepharitis or rosacea, which an eye doctor can diagnose and manage. A doctor might prescribe antibiotic eye drops or oral antibiotics, or perform a minor procedure to drain the stye if it is persistent.