A stye is a common, temporary, red, and painful lump that forms on the eyelid, often resembling a pimple. It occurs when an oil-producing gland in an eyelash follicle or eyelid skin becomes blocked and infected by bacteria.
Why Contact Lenses and Styes Don’t Mix
Wearing contact lenses with a stye is generally not recommended, as it can worsen the condition or lead to complications. A stye is a bacterial infection. The contact lens can rub against the inflamed stye, increasing irritation and discomfort. This constant friction can prolong the healing process and make the eye feel more painful.
There is a significant risk of spreading the bacterial infection. Bacteria from the stye can transfer to the contact lens and then spread to the eye’s surface or the other eye during handling. If the stye bursts or leaks while a contact lens is in the eye, bacteria can become trapped underneath, creating an environment where bacteria can multiply, potentially leading to more severe infections.
Complications can include corneal infections (keratitis) or corneal ulcers. The pressure exerted by the swollen eyelid and the contact lens can disrupt how the lens sits on the eye, causing discomfort and vision issues. Continuing to wear contact lenses hinders the stye’s healing process. Therefore, it is advisable to temporarily switch to glasses when a stye is present.
Treating a Stye and Resuming Contact Lens Wear
Managing a stye primarily involves simple home care practices to encourage healing. Applying warm compresses to the affected eyelid is a highly effective method, as warmth aids in natural drainage. Place a clean washcloth soaked in warm (not hot) water over the closed eye for 5 to 10 minutes, repeated several times a day. Gently cleaning the eyelid with a mild solution, such as diluted baby shampoo, can help keep the area free of discharge. Avoid touching or attempting to pop the stye, as this can spread the infection.
Good hygiene is important while a stye is healing. Hands should be thoroughly washed before and after touching the eye area. If makeup was worn, avoid it until the stye has fully healed to prevent further irritation or infection. Any contact lenses in use when the stye appeared should be discarded, as they may be contaminated. Thoroughly clean and disinfect the contact lens case or consider replacing it.
Resuming contact lens wear should only occur once the stye has completely healed and all symptoms, such as redness, swelling, and discomfort, have subsided. This healing process typically takes one to two weeks. When returning to contact lenses, it is advisable to begin with a new, fresh pair to avoid reinfection. Consulting an eye care professional before resuming contact lens wear is also recommended to ensure the eye is fully recovered.