A stye, medically known as a hordeolum, is a common bacterial infection appearing as a painful, red bump on the eyelid. It occurs when a tiny oil-producing gland in an eyelash follicle or eyelid skin becomes blocked and infected. While uncomfortable, styes are generally not serious and typically resolve on their own within a few days to a week.
Understanding Stye Duration
Most styes resolve within three to seven days, though some can persist for up to two weeks. Their duration is influenced by factors like early home care. Applying warm compresses to the affected eyelid for 10 to 15 minutes, three to five times daily, helps bring pus to the surface and encourages drainage. Consistent eyelid hygiene, such as gently cleaning the area, also supports healing.
Conversely, certain actions can prolong a stye’s presence. Not applying warm compresses regularly, rubbing the eye, using eye makeup, or wearing contact lenses can impede healing and worsen the infection. Avoid squeezing or popping a stye, as this can spread the infection and lead to more serious complications.
Sometimes, a stye may not drain properly and can evolve into a chalazion. A chalazion is a different eyelid bump from a blocked oil gland, typically painless and not caused by active bacterial infection. Chalazia last longer than styes, sometimes for several weeks or months, and may require different medical approaches if they do not resolve spontaneously.
When a Stye Needs Medical Attention
While most styes heal on their own, medical attention is beneficial in certain cases. Consult a doctor if the stye does not improve or worsens after a week of consistent home care, especially if it grows rapidly.
Consult a doctor if the stye affects your vision, causes blurriness, or if you experience excessive pain and swelling beyond the immediate bump. Other symptoms warranting a doctor’s visit include discharge or pus from the eye, eyelid crusting, or if the infection spreads to other parts of the eyelid or face. Recurrent styes, or those with systemic symptoms like fever or chills, also need professional evaluation. A doctor can diagnose the condition by examining the eyelid and may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics to manage the infection. In some cases, a medical professional might need to drain the stye with a sterile needle to facilitate healing.