A stye (hordeolum) is a common red, tender bump on the eyelid edge. It typically forms when a small oil gland or hair follicle becomes infected with bacteria, often Staphylococcus aureus. While many styes resolve on their own, repeated occurrences in the same eye can be frustrating.
Underlying Causes of Recurrence
Several factors contribute to recurrent styes in the same eye. Incomplete drainage of previous styes can leave residual inflammation or blockage in the oil glands. The continued presence of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, on the skin’s surface can easily reinfect these compromised glands.
Chronic inflammation of the eyelid margins, known as blepharitis, significantly contributes to recurrent styes. Blepharitis obstructs eyelid glands, creating an environment where bacteria thrive and increasing stye formation. Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) occurs when eyelid oil glands produce insufficient or poor-quality oil, leading to blockages and increased infection susceptibility.
Certain skin conditions increase the risk of recurrent styes. Rosacea, for instance, involves chronic inflammation that affects meibomian gland function, making individuals more prone to these infections. Other conditions like diabetes, which impair immune function, also elevate the risk of recurrent styes. Everyday habits like improper eye hygiene, frequent eye touching or rubbing, or using old, contaminated eye makeup introduce bacteria and can lead to repeated blockages and infections.
Preventing Future Styes
Preventing recurrent styes involves consistent eyelid hygiene. Applying warm compresses to the eyelids for 10 to 15 minutes, three to five times daily, can help soften blockages in oil glands and promote drainage. This warmth helps bring pus to the surface, allowing the stye to drain naturally.
Daily eyelid cleaning is another important step. This can be done using a mild, eye-safe solution like diluted baby shampoo mixed with warm water, applied with a cotton swab or clean washcloth. Specialized eyelid wipes are also available to effectively remove excess oils and debris from around the eyelashes, preventing bacterial buildup and gland blockage.
Proper contact lens care is also important, including thorough hand washing before handling lenses and disposing of daily wear lenses as recommended. Completely removing eye makeup before bed and replacing products, especially mascara and eyeliner, every two to three months, helps prevent bacterial growth and gland blockage. Avoiding sharing eye makeup or towels also reduces bacterial spread.
When to See a Doctor
While many styes resolve with home care, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare provider if a stye is very painful, or if pain and swelling worsen after two to three days of home treatment. Medical attention is also warranted if the stye does not improve within one to two weeks, or if it appears to be getting larger.
Seek a doctor if the stye causes your eye to swell shut, if pus or blood leaks from the bump, or if blisters form on the eyelid. Vision changes, such as blurred vision or increased light sensitivity, also require prompt assessment. If the infection spreads beyond the eyelid or you develop a fever, see a medical professional. A stye that leaves a painless lump after healing may have turned into a chalazion, which might require medical attention.