An internal stye, formally known as a hordeolum internum, is a common eye condition causing discomfort and swelling in the eyelid. This localized bacterial infection typically appears as a red, tender bump. Knowing the typical duration and recognizing signs that warrant professional attention are important steps in managing this ailment.
Understanding the Internal Stye
An internal stye is an acute infection involving the meibomian glands, specialized oil glands located deep within the eyelid tissue. These glands produce the oily layer of the tear film. When a gland becomes obstructed, it traps bacteria, leading to infection and inflammation. The primary cause of this painful abscess is an overgrowth of bacteria, most often Staphylococcus aureus.
The location of the infection within the tarsal plate explains why an internal stye is often more painful and diffuse than its external counterpart. An external stye affects glands closer to the lash line and tends to be more visible and superficial. Because the internal stye is deeper, the abscess forms inward toward the eyeball, causing generalized eyelid swelling rather than a small, distinct pimple.
Typical Resolution Timeline
Most internal styes are self-limiting, meaning they resolve on their own without specific medical treatment. With consistent at-home care, a stye typically begins to shrink and clear up within one to two weeks. The resolution process involves the infection coming to a head, draining the pus, and subsequently reducing inflammation and pain.
The deeper location of an internal hordeolum means it may take longer to drain naturally compared to a superficial external stye. While many show significant improvement within seven to ten days, some may take up to three to four weeks to fully resolve if the infection is particularly large or deep. Factors like the size of the infection, the individual’s overall immune health, and the diligence of home treatment all influence the speed of recovery.
Self-Care Steps for Promoting Healing
The most effective home treatment is the regular application of a warm compress, which helps soften the hardened secretions and encourages natural drainage of the blocked gland. A clean washcloth soaked in warm water, or a specialized warm compress, should be applied to the closed eyelid for 10 to 15 minutes, three to four times a day. It is important to ensure the compress is warm, but not hot enough to burn the delicate eyelid skin.
Maintaining strict eyelid hygiene is important to prevent further bacterial colonization and speed up healing. Gentle cleaning of the eyelid margin with diluted baby shampoo or a commercial eyelid cleanser can help keep the area clear.
Crucially, never attempt to squeeze or pop an internal stye, as this can push the infection deeper into the tissue, potentially worsening inflammation or causing the infection to spread. Avoid wearing eye makeup or contact lenses until the stye has fully healed to reduce irritation and the risk of re-infection.
When to Seek Professional Medical Care
Consulting a healthcare provider is recommended if the stye fails to improve after one week of diligent home care, or if it persists for longer than two weeks. You should also seek professional attention immediately if:
- The pain becomes severe.
- The swelling or redness spreads beyond the eyelid to other parts of the face.
- You develop a fever or chills.
- Vision changes, such as blurring, occur.
A stye that resolves the acute infection but leaves behind a hard, painless lump may have turned into a chalazion, which is a non-infectious cyst formed from residual blocked material. If the stye is severe, the doctor may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics to manage the bacterial infection. For persistent or large internal styes that do not drain on their own, a minor in-office procedure, such as surgical incision and drainage, may be necessary to relieve the pressure and resolve the condition.