It is not possible to get a stye directly “under” your eye. Styes are infections that specifically affect glands located within the eyelid itself. What might appear as a stye beneath the eye is often an internal stye causing significant swelling, or it could be another type of non-stye bump in the eye area.
What is a Stye?
A stye, medically known as a hordeolum, is an acute bacterial infection of an oil gland within the eyelid. The most common bacterium responsible for these infections is Staphylococcus aureus, which normally resides on the skin. These infections occur when debris, dead skin cells, or old oil block small oil glands or hair follicles in the eyelid, trapping bacteria and leading to inflammation and pus formation.
There are two types of styes, distinguished by their location. An external stye forms on the outer part of the eyelid, at the base of an eyelash follicle. It often presents as a red, painful bump resembling a pimple.
An internal stye develops deeper inside the eyelid. This type results from an infection of a meibomian gland. Internal styes can be more painful than external ones and may cause widespread swelling of the eyelid, sometimes making it appear as if the bump is “under” the eye due to its deeper location and associated inflammation.
Other Common Eye Bumps
Since styes are primarily eyelid infections, other lumps around the eye are distinct conditions, even if they resemble a stye. A chalazion is a common, non-infectious lump that forms in the eyelid when a meibomian gland becomes blocked. Unlike a stye, a chalazion is typically painless and feels like a firm, rubbery nodule. While it can develop after an internal stye, a chalazion is a chronic inflammatory response rather than an active infection.
Milia are tiny, white, benign cysts that appear on the skin around the eyes. These small bumps form when keratin, a protein found in skin, gets trapped under the skin’s surface. Milia are not inflammatory or infectious and differ from the painful, red appearance of a stye.
Xanthelasma are yellowish, fatty deposits that typically form on or around the eyelids. These are cholesterol deposits and do not involve infection or inflammation, making them distinct from styes. Other benign growths like small cysts or skin tags can also occur around the eye area, which are harmless and not indicative of an infection.
Causes and Management
The development of styes and other eye bumps often stems from clogged oil glands, with bacterial infection being a direct cause for styes. Conditions like blepharitis, an inflammation of the eyelid margins, and certain skin conditions such as rosacea, can increase the risk of developing these bumps by affecting gland function and promoting bacterial overgrowth.
Management of styes and chalazia often begins with home remedies. Applying a warm compress is a primary treatment, as the heat helps to open clogged glands and promote drainage. This can be done by soaking a clean washcloth in warm (not hot) water, wringing out the excess, and placing it on the closed eyelid for 5 to 15 minutes, several times a day. Gentle cleaning of the eyelid area also supports healing.
It is important to avoid squeezing or trying to pop any eye bump, as this can spread infection or worsen inflammation. During an active stye or chalazion, it is advisable to refrain from wearing eye makeup and contact lenses to prevent further irritation or contamination. A doctor should be consulted if a bump persists beyond one to two weeks, causes increasing pain, affects vision, or if redness and swelling spread beyond the eyelid. Medical treatments, such as antibiotics or drainage, may be necessary in some cases.
Preventing Eye Bumps
Maintaining good eye hygiene is a fundamental step in preventing styes and other common eye bumps. Regularly washing hands, especially before touching the eyes, helps to minimize the transfer of bacteria. Cleaning the eyelids daily, particularly for individuals prone to conditions like blepharitis, can help keep oil glands clear and prevent blockages.
Proper makeup practices also play a significant role in prevention. Always remove eye makeup completely before going to bed to prevent clogged glands. It is also recommended to discard old eye makeup, typically every two to three months, and avoid sharing makeup products to reduce bacterial contamination.
For contact lens wearers, diligent care is necessary. This includes washing hands thoroughly before handling lenses, cleaning and storing them properly, and replacing them according to the recommended schedule. Avoiding sleeping in contact lenses helps reduce the risk of eye infections and irritation. Additionally, avoiding excessive eye rubbing can prevent irritation and the introduction of bacteria.