A stye is a common eyelid condition that can raise questions about daily activities, including exercise. Working out with a stye is generally possible, provided certain precautions are taken. Implementing appropriate hygiene measures can help manage the condition while maintaining your fitness routine.
What a Stye Is
A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a tender, red bump that forms on the edge of the eyelid. It typically resembles a small pimple or boil. Styes occur when one of the tiny oil-producing glands along the eyelid or at the base of an eyelash becomes blocked and infected. The most frequent cause of this infection is the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus, a common skin bacterium.
Symptoms often include localized swelling, pain, and redness. You might also experience a feeling of something being in your eye, light sensitivity, or tearing. Styes usually resolve on their own within one to two weeks.
Working Out with a Stye
Exercising with a stye requires careful consideration to prevent worsening the condition or spreading bacteria. Sweat can introduce more bacteria to the affected area and may increase irritation, potentially prolonging the healing process. Shared gym equipment and facilities also present a risk for spreading bacteria, though styes are generally not highly contagious.
Strict hygiene is important. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after touching your face or gym equipment. Wipe down any exercise equipment before and after use to minimize bacterial transfer. Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes during your workout to prevent further irritation or spreading the infection.
Choosing lower-impact activities is beneficial, as intense workouts can lead to increased sweating and discomfort around the eye. Walking or cycling could be more comfortable than high-intensity exercises. Avoid swimming pools, hot tubs, or steam rooms, as the water can introduce additional bacteria to the eye and potentially worsen the infection. Chlorine in pools can also irritate the eye.
Avoid exercise if the stye is severely painful, very large, or begins to affect your vision; rest and allow it to heal. If you develop signs of a spreading infection, such as fever, significant redness or swelling extending beyond the eyelid, or blistering, seek medical attention immediately and refrain from exercise.
Healing Your Stye
Consistent home care is key to healing a stye. Apply warm compresses by soaking a clean washcloth in warm (not hot) water, wringing out the excess, and applying it to the closed eyelid for 5 to 15 minutes. Repeat this three to six times a day, as the warmth helps the stye to drain naturally.
Gentle lid hygiene is beneficial. Clean the eyelid area using a mild soap, such as diluted baby shampoo, or specialized eyelid wipes. Avoid squeezing or attempting to pop the stye, as this can spread the infection or lead to further complications, including scarring. Refrain from wearing eye makeup or contact lenses until the stye has fully healed to prevent further irritation or bacterial contamination.
Most styes resolve with home treatment within one to two weeks. If the stye does not show improvement after 48 hours to a few days, worsens, or impacts your vision, consult a healthcare provider. Seek medical attention if the redness or swelling spreads to other parts of your face or if you experience recurrent styes.