Popping a stye is not recommended. A stye is an infection within the eyelid, and trying to squeeze it can lead to complications. This common bump on the eyelid typically resolves on its own with proper care.
Understanding What a Stye Is
A stye, medically known as a hordeolum, is a tender, red bump that forms along the edge of the eyelid. It arises from an acute bacterial infection, most commonly caused by Staphylococcus bacteria, affecting an oil gland within the eyelid. These glands produce an oily substance that lubricates the eye’s surface.
Styes can develop either externally at the base of an eyelash follicle or internally within the deeper oil glands of the eyelid. This infection leads to inflammation, resulting in the characteristic painful lump. Unlike a stye, a chalazion is typically a non-infectious, usually painless lump caused by a blocked oil gland that does not involve bacterial infection. Factors like poor eyelid hygiene, not removing eye makeup, or certain skin conditions can increase the likelihood of developing a stye.
Risks of Popping a Stye
Popping a stye is highly discouraged due to several risks. Squeezing an infected stye can rupture the delicate tissue and spread the bacterial infection deeper into the eyelid or surrounding areas. This can lead to a more severe condition known as cellulitis, a widespread bacterial infection under the skin that requires immediate medical attention.
Forcing the stye to drain can also worsen inflammation, causing increased pain and swelling. The pressure can push bacteria further into the skin, potentially leading to a larger, more persistent infection. Such actions risk permanent scarring or changes in skin pigmentation on the eyelid, which is a sensitive and visible area.
Additionally, self-manipulation can damage the eye’s delicate tissues, possibly affecting the cornea. Delaying the natural healing process and introducing new bacteria can prolong the stye’s resolution.
Effective Home Treatment for Styes
Managing a stye at home involves measures to encourage natural drainage and healing. The most effective approach is the consistent application of warm compresses. Soaking a clean washcloth in warm water and gently placing it over the closed eyelid for 10 to 15 minutes, three to four times a day, can help.
The warmth from the compress helps to soften and thin the oily secretions within the blocked gland, promoting drainage and reducing inflammation. After applying the warm compress, a gentle massage of the affected area with clean hands can further encourage the stye to drain. Maintaining good eyelid hygiene is also important; this includes gently cleaning the eyelids with a mild, eye-safe cleanser or diluted baby shampoo.
During the healing process, it is advisable to avoid wearing eye makeup or contact lenses to prevent further irritation or contamination. Refraining from touching or rubbing the eye can also prevent the spread of bacteria and allow the stye to heal without interference. Most styes will resolve on their own within one to two weeks with these home care practices.
When to See a Doctor for a Stye
While most styes resolve with home treatment, medical attention is sometimes necessary. Consult a doctor if the stye does not show signs of improvement after a few days of consistent home care. Medical consultation is also advised if the stye worsens, becomes painful, or affects your vision.
Spreading redness or swelling, or if the eyelid becomes very red and hot, could indicate a more serious infection like cellulitis. Frequent recurrence of styes also warrants a doctor’s visit, as it might suggest an underlying condition. A healthcare provider might prescribe topical or oral antibiotics to combat the infection or perform a minor in-office procedure to drain a persistent or severe stye.