Sty Symptoms, Causes, and Effective Treatment Options

Introduction

A sty, also known as a hordeolum, is a common eye condition that presents as a painful, red bump near the edge of the eyelid. While styes are generally harmless, they can cause discomfort and may interfere with daily activities such as reading or using a computer. Styes have been recognized for centuries, with early medical texts documenting their symptoms and basic treatments. Today, styes are well-understood, and there are many effective treatments available. This article provides a comprehensive guide to understanding styes, including their risk factors, symptoms, diagnostic methods, treatment options, and home remedies to ease discomfort. By the end, you will have a clearer understanding of what causes a sty, how it can be treated, and how to prevent future occurrences.

What is a Sty?

A sty is a bacterial infection of the oil glands in the eyelid, resulting in a red, swollen bump. This article will cover the risk factors, symptoms, diagnostic tests, medications, procedures, and home remedies that can help manage and treat a sty.

Description of a Sty

A sty is a small, painful lump that forms on the inside or outside of the eyelid. It occurs when bacteria, typically Staphylococcus aureus, infect an oil gland or hair follicle at the base of an eyelash. As the infection progresses, the area becomes red, swollen, and tender. In some cases, the sty may fill with pus and resemble a pimple. While most styes are external and visible on the surface of the eyelid, some can form internally, causing more discomfort but being less noticeable.

Styes generally develop quickly, often within a few days. They may start as a minor irritation and progress to a more painful, inflamed bump. Most styes resolve on their own within one to two weeks, but some may require medical treatment if they persist or worsen.

Styes are relatively common, affecting people of all ages. Studies show that approximately 5% of the general population will experience a sty at some point. Although not considered a serious medical condition, styes can be recurrent and cause significant discomfort, especially if left untreated.

Risk Factors for Developing a Sty

Lifestyle Risk Factors

Certain lifestyle habits can increase the likelihood of developing a sty. One of the most common risk factors is poor eyelid hygiene. Not washing your face or removing makeup before bed can lead to clogged oil glands, which may trigger a sty. Additionally, frequently touching your eyes with unclean hands can introduce bacteria to the eyelid area, increasing the risk of infection.

Contact lens wearers are also at higher risk, especially if they do not follow proper cleaning protocols. Wearing old or dirty lenses, or handling lenses without washing your hands, can introduce bacteria to the eye, leading to infections like styes. Sharing personal items such as towels, makeup, or eye care products can also spread bacteria and increase the risk of developing a sty.

Stress and lack of sleep can contribute to the development of a sty. These factors weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off bacterial infections. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including proper sleep and stress management, can help reduce the risk.

Medical Risk Factors

Several medical conditions can predispose individuals to developing styes. People with blepharitis, a chronic inflammation of the eyelids, are more likely to experience recurrent styes. Blepharitis causes the oil glands in the eyelids to become blocked, creating an environment where bacteria can thrive.

Other skin conditions, such as rosacea or seborrheic dermatitis, can also increase the risk of styes. These conditions cause inflammation and irritation of the skin, including the eyelids, which can lead to clogged oil glands and bacterial infections. Additionally, individuals with diabetes are more prone to infections, including styes, due to a weakened immune system and slower healing processes.

Chronic dry eye syndrome is another medical risk factor. When the eyes do not produce enough tears, the eyelids can become irritated, increasing the risk of infection. People with compromised immune systems, such as those undergoing chemotherapy or living with autoimmune diseases, are also more susceptible to bacterial infections, including styes.

Genetic and Age-Related Risk Factors

While styes can affect people of all ages, certain genetic and age-related factors may increase the likelihood of developing them. For example, individuals with a family history of blepharitis or other eyelid conditions may be more prone to styes due to inherited traits that affect the oil glands in the eyelids.

Age can also play a role in the development of styes. As people age, the oil glands in the eyelids may become less efficient, leading to blockages and an increased risk of infection. Older adults are also more likely to have underlying health conditions, such as diabetes or dry eye syndrome, which can further increase the risk of developing a sty.

In summary, while anyone can develop a sty, certain lifestyle choices, medical conditions, and genetic factors can increase the likelihood of experiencing this common eye condition. Understanding these risk factors can help you take steps to prevent styes and manage them effectively if they occur.

Clinical Manifestations of a Sty

Redness (85-90%)

Redness is one of the most common symptoms of a sty, occurring in approximately 85-90% of patients. This redness is caused by inflammation of the sebaceous glands at the base of the eyelashes. When these glands become blocked and infected, blood vessels in the area dilate, leading to increased blood flow and the characteristic red appearance. Redness is often more pronounced in the early stages of a sty and can be more severe in individuals with underlying conditions such as blepharitis or chronic eye infections.

Swelling (80-85%)

Swelling occurs in 80-85% of sty cases and is a direct result of the body’s immune response to the infection. The accumulation of fluid and immune cells in the affected area leads to noticeable puffiness around the eyelid. Swelling can vary in severity, with some patients experiencing mild puffiness, while others may have significant swelling that interferes with vision. In most cases, swelling is most prominent in the early stages of the sty and gradually subsides as the infection resolves.

Tenderness (75-80%)

Tenderness is reported in about 75-80% of individuals with a sty. This symptom occurs because the infection and inflammation cause irritation of the surrounding tissue, making the area sensitive to touch. Tenderness is often localized to the area directly over the infected gland but can sometimes extend to the entire eyelid. The discomfort is usually worse in the early stages of the infection and may improve as the sty begins to drain or heal.

Pain (65-70%)

Pain is experienced by 65-70% of sty patients and is often described as a throbbing or aching sensation. The pain is caused by the pressure exerted by the swollen, infected gland on nearby nerves. In some cases, the pain may be exacerbated by blinking or touching the affected area. Pain levels can vary depending on the size and location of the sty, with larger or deeper styes typically causing more discomfort. Pain usually subsides once the sty drains or the infection is treated.

Pus Formation (60-65%)

Pus formation occurs in approximately 60-65% of sty cases. This is a hallmark of bacterial infections, as the immune system sends white blood cells to the site of infection to fight off the invading bacteria. The accumulation of these cells, along with dead tissue and bacteria, forms pus. Pus may collect in a small, visible pocket near the eyelash line, often giving the sty a yellowish or white head. Once the sty drains, either naturally or with treatment, the pus is released, leading to symptom relief.

Itching (50-55%)

Itching is reported by 50-55% of patients with a sty. This symptom is often due to the irritation of the skin and mucous membranes around the infected area. Itching may be more common in individuals with allergies or chronic eye conditions, such as blepharitis. Scratching or rubbing the affected area can worsen the infection, so it is important to avoid touching the sty, even if it feels itchy.

Tearing (45-50%)

Excessive tearing, or epiphora, occurs in about 45-50% of sty patients. The infection and inflammation can irritate the tear ducts, leading to an overproduction of tears. In some cases, the swelling from the sty may block the tear ducts, preventing proper drainage and causing tears to accumulate on the surface of the eye. Tearing is usually more pronounced in the early stages of the sty and may improve as the infection resolves.

Sensitivity to Light (30-35%)

Light sensitivity, or photophobia, is experienced by 30-35% of individuals with a sty. This occurs because the inflammation and irritation of the eyelid can make the eye more sensitive to bright lights. Patients may find it uncomfortable to be in well-lit environments or may squint or close their eyes when exposed to sunlight or artificial light. Sensitivity to light is usually temporary and improves as the infection heals.

Crusting (25-30%)

Crusting around the eyelid is reported in 25-30% of sty cases. This occurs when the discharge from the infected gland dries and forms a crust along the eyelid margin. Crusting is more common in the morning after sleep, as the eye produces less moisture during the night. Gently cleaning the affected area with warm water and a clean cloth can help remove the crust and prevent further irritation.

Eyelid Lump (20-25%)

An eyelid lump is present in 20-25% of sty patients. This lump is typically a small, raised bump near the base of the eyelashes and is caused by the blockage and swelling of the infected gland. While the lump may initially be soft, it can become firmer as the infection progresses. In some cases, the lump may persist even after the infection has resolved, though it usually diminishes in size over time.

Diagnostic Evaluation of a Sty

The diagnosis of a sty is primarily made through a clinical examination by a healthcare provider. During the examination, the provider will assess the patient’s symptoms, such as redness, swelling, and tenderness, and visually inspect the affected eyelid. A diagnosis is often straightforward based on the characteristic appearance of the sty. In some cases, additional tests may be performed to rule out other conditions, such as chalazion or blepharitis, or to determine the underlying cause of recurrent styes. Below are some of the diagnostic evaluations that may be used to confirm a sty diagnosis.

Visual Acuity Test

A visual acuity test measures how well a patient can see at various distances. This test is performed by having the patient read letters or symbols from a chart placed at a specific distance. The goal is to determine whether the sty is affecting the patient’s vision. While a sty typically does not cause significant visual impairment, severe swelling or a large sty may obstruct part of the visual field. This test is important for ruling out other conditions that may cause vision problems, such as conjunctivitis or a more serious eye infection.

Results that Indicate Sty

If a patient’s visual acuity is normal or only slightly impaired due to swelling, this suggests that the sty is not affecting the deeper structures of the eye. In these cases, the diagnosis of a sty is more likely. However, if the visual acuity test reveals significant vision loss, further evaluation may be needed to rule out other conditions, such as a corneal ulcer or orbital cellulitis. If the test results are normal, but symptoms persist, the healthcare provider may recommend other diagnostic evaluations to confirm the diagnosis.

Slit-Lamp Examination

A slit-lamp examination is a detailed evaluation of the eye using a specialized microscope known as a slit lamp. This test allows the healthcare provider to examine the eyelid, eyelashes, and other structures of the eye under high magnification. The slit lamp emits a narrow beam of light, which helps the provider visualize the affected area in greater detail. This test is particularly useful for identifying the exact location of the sty and assessing the extent of the infection.

Results that Indicate Sty

During a slit-lamp examination, the provider may observe localized swelling, redness, and pus formation near the base of the eyelashes, which are indicative of a sty. If the examination reveals a blocked or inflamed sebaceous gland, this further supports the diagnosis. However, if the slit-lamp examination shows signs of a deeper infection or a different type of eyelid lesion, such as a chalazion, additional tests may be required. If no abnormalities are found during the slit-lamp examination, the provider may explore other potential causes for the patient’s symptoms.

Culture Swab

A culture swab involves collecting a sample of discharge or pus from the sty to test for the presence of bacteria. This test is typically performed if the sty is recurrent or does not respond to standard treatment. The healthcare provider will use a sterile swab to gently collect a sample from the affected area, which is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. The goal of this test is to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection, which can help guide treatment decisions.

Results that Indicate Sty

If the culture swab identifies common bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, this confirms the diagnosis of a bacterial sty. The results can also help determine whether the infection is resistant to certain antibiotics, which may explain why the sty has not responded to treatment. If the culture swab does not show any bacterial growth, the provider may consider other causes for the patient’s symptoms, such as a viral infection or an allergic reaction. In these cases, alternative treatments may be recommended.

Conjunctival Scraping

Conjunctival scraping is a procedure in which cells are collected from the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that covers the white part of the eye. This test is performed if the healthcare provider suspects that the sty is associated with a more widespread eye infection, such as conjunctivitis. A small, sterile instrument is used to gently scrape the surface of the conjunctiva, and the sample is sent to a laboratory for analysis. The goal is to identify any infectious agents or abnormal cells that may be contributing to the patient’s symptoms.

Results that Indicate Sty

If the conjunctival scraping shows the presence of bacteria, this supports the diagnosis of a bacterial sty. However, if the scraping reveals other pathogens, such as viruses or fungi, the provider may need to adjust the treatment plan accordingly. In some cases, the scraping may show signs of chronic inflammation or allergic reactions, which could explain the patient’s symptoms. If the results are inconclusive, the provider may recommend additional tests or refer the patient to a specialist for further evaluation.

What if All Tests are Negative but Symptoms Persist?

If all diagnostic tests come back negative but your symptoms persist, it’s important to follow up with your healthcare provider. Persistent symptoms could indicate a different underlying condition, such as a chalazion, blepharitis, or even an allergic reaction. Your provider may recommend additional testing or refer you to an eye specialist for further evaluation. In some cases, a biopsy may be needed to rule out more serious conditions. It’s important not to ignore ongoing symptoms, as early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications.

Health Conditions with Similar Symptoms to a Sty

Chalazion

A chalazion is a small, painless lump that forms on the eyelid due to a blocked oil gland. Unlike a sty, which is typically caused by a bacterial infection, a chalazion occurs when the meibomian gland (an oil-producing gland in the eyelid) becomes clogged. Chalazia are usually not painful, but they can cause swelling and discomfort if they grow large enough to press on the eye.

How to Know if You Might Have a Chalazion vs. a Sty

Both a chalazion and a sty can cause swelling on the eyelid, but there are key differences. A chalazion is typically painless and develops more slowly than a sty. While a sty is often red, tender, and painful due to infection, a chalazion is usually not painful unless it becomes very large. Additionally, a chalazion is more likely to cause a visible bump on the inner part of the eyelid, whereas a sty often forms closer to the edge of the eyelid.

To differentiate between the two, a healthcare provider may perform a physical examination of the eyelid. In some cases, they may press gently on the lump to assess whether it is tender (which would suggest a sty) or painless (which would suggest a chalazion). No special tests are typically needed, but if the lump persists or grows, further evaluation may be necessary to rule out other conditions.

Conjunctivitis

Conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin, clear tissue that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. It can be caused by infections (viral or bacterial), allergies, or irritants. Conjunctivitis often causes redness, itching, and discharge from the eye, and it can affect one or both eyes.

How to Know if You Might Have Conjunctivitis vs. a Sty

Both conjunctivitis and a sty can cause redness and swelling around the eye, but conjunctivitis typically affects the entire eye, not just the eyelid. Additionally, conjunctivitis often causes significant eye discharge, which can be watery or thick, depending on the cause. In contrast, a sty usually causes a localized bump on the eyelid and may produce only a small amount of discharge.

Conjunctivitis can also cause itching or a gritty feeling in the eye, which is less common with a sty. A healthcare provider may perform an eye examination and ask about your symptoms to distinguish between the two. In some cases, a swab of the eye discharge may be taken to determine whether the conjunctivitis is bacterial or viral, but this is not always necessary. If the redness and swelling are confined to the eyelid, a sty is more likely, whereas widespread redness and discharge suggest conjunctivitis.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids, usually involving the area where the eyelashes grow. It can be caused by a bacterial infection, clogged oil glands, or skin conditions like dandruff or rosacea. Blepharitis often leads to red, swollen, and itchy eyelids, and it can cause crusting around the eyelashes.

How to Know if You Might Have Blepharitis vs. a Sty

Blepharitis and a sty can both cause redness and swelling of the eyelid, but blepharitis typically affects both eyelids and causes more widespread irritation. In contrast, a sty usually causes a localized bump on one eyelid. Blepharitis is often associated with flaky skin or crusting around the eyelashes, which is not a common symptom of a sty.

Blepharitis can also cause a burning or gritty sensation in the eyes, which is less common with a sty. A healthcare provider may perform a physical examination of the eyelids and eyelashes to look for signs of crusting or clogged oil glands. In some cases, a sample of the crust or oil may be taken for testing, but this is usually not necessary. If the inflammation is more widespread and affects both eyelids, blepharitis is more likely, whereas a sty typically causes a single, painful bump.

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that can occur anywhere on the body, including the eyelids. It causes redness, swelling, warmth, and pain in the affected area. When cellulitis affects the eyelid, it is usually due to bacteria entering through a small cut or insect bite. If left untreated, cellulitis can spread and cause serious complications.

How to Know if You Might Have Cellulitis vs. a Sty

Both cellulitis and a sty can cause redness and swelling of the eyelid, but cellulitis typically affects a larger area and causes more diffuse swelling. In contrast, a sty usually causes a localized bump on the eyelid. Cellulitis is also more likely to cause warmth, tenderness, and fever, which are not common symptoms of a sty.

A healthcare provider may perform a physical examination of the affected area and ask about your symptoms. In some cases, blood tests or imaging studies (such as an ultrasound or CT scan) may be needed to determine the extent of the infection. If the redness and swelling are confined to a small bump on the eyelid, a sty is more likely. However, if the swelling is more widespread and accompanied by fever or warmth, cellulitis is a more likely diagnosis.

Herpes Simplex Keratitis

Herpes simplex keratitis is an infection of the cornea (the clear, front part of the eye) caused by the herpes simplex virus. It can cause redness, pain, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light. Herpes simplex keratitis is a serious condition that can lead to scarring of the cornea and vision loss if not treated promptly.

How to Know if You Might Have Herpes Simplex Keratitis vs. a Sty

Both herpes simplex keratitis and a sty can cause redness and discomfort around the eye, but herpes simplex keratitis typically affects the cornea, not the eyelid. This condition is more likely to cause pain, blurred vision, and sensitivity to light, which are not common symptoms of a sty. A sty, on the other hand, usually causes a painful bump on the eyelid and does not affect vision.

A healthcare provider may perform a slit-lamp examination (a special type of eye exam) to look for signs of infection on the cornea. In some cases, a swab of the eye may be taken to test for the herpes simplex virus. If the redness and pain are confined to the eyelid, a sty is more likely. However, if you experience vision changes or sensitivity to light, herpes simplex keratitis should be considered.

Allergic Reaction

An allergic reaction can occur when the body’s immune system overreacts to a substance, such as pollen, pet dander, or cosmetics. When the eyes are affected, allergic reactions can cause redness, itching, swelling, and watery discharge. These symptoms can affect both eyes and may be accompanied by sneezing or a runny nose.

How to Know if You Might Have an Allergic Reaction vs. a Sty

Both an allergic reaction and a sty can cause swelling and redness around the eyes, but an allergic reaction typically affects both eyes and is accompanied by itching. In contrast, a sty usually affects only one eyelid and causes a painful bump. Allergic reactions are also more likely to cause watery discharge, which is not a common symptom of a sty.

A healthcare provider may ask about your exposure to potential allergens (such as pollen or pet dander) and whether you have a history of allergies. In some cases, allergy testing may be recommended. If the swelling and redness are confined to a single, painful bump on the eyelid, a sty is more likely. However, if both eyes are affected and itching is present, an allergic reaction is more likely.

Treatment Options for Sty

Medications for Sty Treatment

Antibiotic Ointments

Antibiotic ointments are topical medications designed to treat bacterial infections in the eye. These ointments specifically target styes by reducing the bacterial presence and preventing the infection from spreading.

They are applied directly to the affected eyelid and are often recommended when a bacterial infection is confirmed or suspected. Antibiotic ointments are a first-line treatment for styes that don’t resolve on their own or are particularly painful or persistent.

Patients typically notice improvement within a few days, with the sty shrinking and discomfort decreasing. Full resolution may take up to a week.

Warm Compresses

A warm compress involves applying a clean, warm cloth to the affected eye. The heat increases blood flow, encouraging the sty to drain naturally.

This is often the first recommended treatment, as it alleviates pain and promotes healing without the need for medication. Warm compresses should be applied for 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times daily.

With consistent use, most patients experience reduced swelling and pain within a few days, and the sty may drain on its own, speeding up the healing process.

Pain Relievers

Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage the discomfort associated with a sty. While they don’t treat the sty itself, they can alleviate pain and reduce inflammation.

Pain relievers are typically used when the sty causes significant discomfort or interferes with daily activities. They are not a primary treatment but can complement other therapies like warm compresses or antibiotics.

Patients can expect pain relief within 30 minutes to an hour, though the sty will still need time to heal.

Topical Antibiotics

Topical antibiotics, such as eye drops or gels, are applied directly to the eye to treat bacterial infections. These medications target the bacteria causing the infection and help reduce inflammation.

Topical antibiotics are often prescribed when a sty doesn’t improve with home remedies or if there is concern about the infection spreading. They may be used alongside oral antibiotics for more severe cases.

Improvement is usually seen within a few days, with the sty shrinking and symptoms like redness and swelling decreasing.

Oral Antibiotics

Oral antibiotics are systemic medications taken by mouth to treat bacterial infections. They work by targeting bacteria from within the body, helping to clear the infection.

Oral antibiotics are typically reserved for more severe or recurrent styes, especially if the infection is spreading or if the patient has underlying conditions that increase susceptibility to complications.

Patients may notice improvement within a few days of starting the medication, but completing the full course is essential to ensure the infection is fully eradicated.

Steroid Eye Drops

Steroid eye drops reduce inflammation and swelling in the eye. While they don’t treat the infection itself, they help alleviate discomfort associated with a sty.

These drops are usually prescribed when inflammation is severe or if the sty isn’t responding to other treatments. They are often used in combination with antibiotics.

Patients can expect reduced swelling and irritation within a few days, though the sty may still take time to heal.

Artificial Tears

Artificial tears are lubricating eye drops that relieve dryness and irritation. While they don’t treat the sty directly, they provide comfort by keeping the eye moist and reducing irritation.

Artificial tears are often recommended for patients experiencing dry eyes or discomfort due to the sty. They are safe to use alongside other treatments like antibiotics and warm compresses.

Patients may notice immediate relief from dryness and irritation, though the sty itself will still need time to heal.

Antihistamines

Antihistamines reduce allergic reactions and inflammation. While not commonly used for styes, they may help if underlying allergies contribute to eye irritation.

These medications are typically used when allergies are suspected to exacerbate the sty or cause additional discomfort. They can be taken orally or as eye drops.

Patients may notice relief from itching and irritation within a few hours, though the sty itself will need separate treatment.

Lid Scrubs

Lid scrubs are specially formulated cleansers used to clean the eyelids and remove debris, bacteria, and oils that can contribute to styes. Regular eyelid hygiene helps prevent styes from forming or recurring.

Lid scrubs are typically recommended for patients who experience frequent styes or have underlying conditions like blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids). They can be used daily as part of a regular eye care routine.

With consistent use, patients may notice fewer styes and improved overall eye health.

Procedures for Persistent Styes

Incision and Drainage

Incision and drainage is a minor surgical procedure where a doctor makes a small cut in the sty to allow pus to drain. This relieves pressure and promotes healing.

This procedure is usually reserved for large or persistent styes that don’t respond to other treatments. It is performed under local anesthesia in a doctor’s office.

Patients can expect immediate relief from pain and swelling, though the area may remain tender for a few days. Full healing typically occurs within a week.

Steroid Injections

Steroid injections involve injecting a corticosteroid directly into the sty to reduce inflammation and swelling. This treatment is not commonly used but may be considered for particularly large or persistent styes.

Steroid injections are typically reserved for cases where other treatments have failed or if the sty is causing significant discomfort or vision problems. The procedure is performed by an eye specialist.

Patients can expect reduced swelling within a few days, though the sty may still take time to fully heal.

Improving Sty Symptoms and When to Seek Medical Help

While many styes resolve on their own with home care, several remedies can help speed up healing and reduce discomfort:

1. Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress to the affected eye for 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times a day to help the sty drain naturally.
2. Eyelid Hygiene: Keep the eyelids clean by gently washing them with a mild soap or specialized lid scrub to prevent further irritation and infection.
3. Tea Bag Compress: Some patients find relief using a warm tea bag as a compress, as the tannins in tea may have anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Chamomile Compress: Chamomile, known for its soothing properties, can be used as a warm compress to reduce swelling.
5. Avoid Touching the Eye: Refrain from rubbing or touching the affected eye to prevent the spread of bacteria.
6. Maintain Clean Hands: Always wash your hands before touching your face or eyes to reduce the risk of infection.
7. Avoid Eye Makeup: Avoid using eye makeup until the sty has healed to prevent irritation and contamination.
8. Increase Fluid Intake: Staying hydrated helps your body fight infections more effectively.
9. Reduce Stress: Managing stress can boost your immune system and may help prevent recurrent styes.

If your sty doesn’t improve with home remedies or becomes more painful, larger, or affects your vision, seek medical help. Telemedicine offers a convenient way to consult with a healthcare provider from home. Through a virtual visit, a doctor can assess your symptoms, recommend treatments, and prescribe medications if necessary.

Living with a Sty: Tips for Better Quality of Life

While a sty can be uncomfortable, there are steps you can take to manage the condition and improve your quality of life:

1. Maintain good eyelid hygiene to prevent future styes.
2. Use warm compresses regularly to promote healing and reduce discomfort.
3. Avoid wearing contact lenses or eye makeup until the sty has fully healed.
4. Stay hydrated and manage stress to support your immune system.
5. Consult a healthcare provider if you experience recurrent styes or if the sty doesn’t improve with home care.

Conclusion

A sty is a common and usually harmless condition that causes discomfort and swelling around the eye. While most styes resolve on their own, treatments like warm compresses, antibiotics, and proper eyelid hygiene can help speed up the healing process.

Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing complications and ensuring a quick recovery. If you’re experiencing a sty that doesn’t improve with home care, our telemedicine practice is here to help. Schedule a virtual consultation with one of our healthcare providers to receive personalized advice and treatment options from the comfort of your home.

James Kingsley

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