How to Treat and Prevent Styes

A stye (also known as a hordeolum) is a common eye condition that appears as a small, painful red bump on the eyelid margin. Styes can be uncomfortable but are usually harmless, healing within a week with proper care. A stye can occur on the outer eyelid (external hordeolum) or inside the eyelid (internal hordeolum or chalazion).

What is a Stye?

A stye is a localised infection or inflammation of the eyelid, typically caused by blockage and infection of the meibomian glands (oil glands) or sebaceous oil layer in our tear film, which helps keep the eyes lubricated and prevents tear evaporation.

Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is closely linked to dry eye syndrome and blepharitis, two conditions that can contribute to stye formation. There are two types of styes:

• External Stye (Hordeolum Externum): A red, painful bump near the edge of the eyelid, usually caused by an infected eyelash follicle or oil gland.
• Internal Stye (Hordeolum Internum/Chalazion): Forms inside the eyelid and is often more painful than an external stye due to deeper inflammation.

What Causes a Stye?

Styes are primarily caused by staphylococcal bacteria, which commonly reside in the nose and can be transferred to the eyes through touch. Other contributing factors include:

• Blepharitis: Chronic eyelid inflammation leads to bacterial overgrowth and biofilm formation on the eyelids, increasing the risk of styes.
• Poor Lid Hygiene: Failure to clean the eyelids regularly can lead to clogged oil glands and bacterial infection.
• Contact Lens Wear: Improper handling of contact lenses can introduce bacteria to the eyelids.
• Old or Contaminated Makeup: Using expired eye makeup or sharing cosmetics can spread bacteria.
• False Eyelash Extensions: Lash extensions can trap debris and bacteria, creating an unhygienic environment.

Symptoms of a Stye

• Red, swollen, and painful eyelid lump
• Tenderness around the affected area
• Watery or irritated eyes
• Light sensitivity
• Crusting around the eyelid
• A small yellow spot at the centre of the bump (indicating pus formation)

How to Treat a Stye?

At Adelaide City Optometrist, our expert optometrists can assess the underlying cause of your stye and recommend the best treatment for quick relief. Here are the most effective treatments:

1. Lid Hygiene
   Maintaining proper eyelid hygiene is crucial for preventing and treating styes:
   – Clean the eyelids daily using a sterile eyelid cleanser or diluted baby shampoo.
   – Use a clean makeup remover pad or cotton pad to gently cleanse the eyelids.
   – Avoid wearing contact lenses and eye makeup until the stye heals
2. Warm Compress
   A warm compress is one of the most effective home treatments for a stye:
   – Soak a clean cloth in warm water and apply it to the affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes, 2-3 times a day.
   – The heat helps to open blocked glands, drain the stye, and speed up healing.

    

3. Medical Treatment
   If the stye persists or worsens, professional treatment may be necessary:
   
   – Antibiotic Eye Drops/Ointment: Topical antibiotics can help prevent the infection from spreading.

   – Lubricating Eye Drops: Help soothe irritation and reduce dryness.

   – In-Office Procedures: In severe cases, an optometrist may need to drain the stye or prescribe oral antibiotics.

Are Styes Contagious?

Yes, styes are contagious because they are caused by bacteria. To prevent spreading:

• Do not pop the stye, as it can spread the infection.
• Wash hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes.
• Discard old or contaminated makeup and never share cosmetics.
• Clean contact lenses properly and replace them as recommended.

How to Prevent Styes?

Preventing styes involves good hygiene and eye care practices:

• Wash your face and eyelids daily, especially before bed.
• Use hypoallergenic and ophthalmologist-approved eye makeup.
• Clean and replace contact lenses as recommended.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes, especially with unwashed hands.
• Regular eye tests at Adelaide City Optometrist can help detect and manage underlying conditions like blepharitis and dry eye disease.

If you have recurring or persistent styes, our expert optometrists at Adelaide City Optometrist can diagnose the root cause and provide effective treatment.

Book an eye test today for personalised eye care solutions.