A stye, medically known as a hordeolum, is a common, often painful red bump on the eyelid. It forms when an oil-producing gland or eyelash follicle becomes blocked and infected with bacteria, usually Staphylococcus aureus. This causes localized swelling, tenderness, and eye irritation. Many wonder if covering it with an eye patch is beneficial.
Wearing an Eye Patch for a Stye
Wearing an eye patch might seem appealing for comfort or to conceal a stye, but it is generally not recommended for managing the condition. An eye patch can create conditions counterproductive to healing. While a doctor might apply a pressure patch in specific medical scenarios, such as after surgical drainage, this differs significantly from typical home care.
Why an Eye Patch Is Not Recommended
Wearing an eye patch over a stye can worsen the condition by creating an environment conducive to bacterial growth. Bacteria thrive in warm, moist, and dark settings, which an eye patch provides. This enclosed space can trap existing bacteria, leading to multiplication and a more severe infection. Covering the stye can also impede natural drainage of the blocked gland, essential for resolution. The patch may also increase irritation to the tender eyelid, delaying healing.
Effective Home Care for a Stye
Effective home care focuses on promoting drainage and maintaining hygiene to help a stye heal naturally. Apply warm compresses to the affected eyelid. Use a clean washcloth soaked in warm water, wrung out, and placed over the closed eye for 10 to 15 minutes, three to five times a day, to promote drainage. Re-warm the washcloth as it cools to maintain consistent heat.
Gentle lid hygiene is also important. Wipe the eyelid with a mild soapy solution, such as diluted baby shampoo (half baby shampoo and half water), or with specialized eyelid wipes. This helps remove discharge and can prevent future styes. Always wash hands thoroughly before touching the eyes or applying any remedies to avoid introducing more bacteria.
Avoid wearing eye makeup, as cosmetics can clog pores, delay healing, or spread infection. Contact lenses should also be avoided, as they can harbor bacteria and reinfect the eye. Wearing glasses temporarily allows the eye to heal. Always resist the urge to squeeze or pop the stye, as this can spread the infection deeper and cause complications.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
Most styes resolve on their own with proper home care within one to two weeks. However, seek professional medical attention if the stye does not show improvement after 48 hours to a week of home treatment, or if it appears to be worsening. Also seek care if redness or swelling spreads beyond the eyelid to other parts of the face, such as the cheek.
Other symptoms include persistent or extreme pain, changes in vision, or blisters on the eyelid. Consult a doctor if the stye repeatedly returns, or if there is pus or blood leaking from the bump. These symptoms may indicate a more serious infection or underlying condition requiring medical intervention, such as oral antibiotics or drainage.