Stye (Hordeolum)
A stye is a small, painful red bump that grows on the inside or outside of the eyelid. It is typically caused by a bacterial infection of an oil gland or eyelash follicle.
Overview
A stye is a small, painful red bump that grows on the inside or outside of the eyelid. It is typically caused by a bacterial infection of an oil gland or eyelash follicle.
Symptoms
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Causes
- •Staphylococcal bacteria infection
- •Clogged oil gland on the eyelid margin
- •Infected eyelash follicle
Risk factors
- •Touching eyes with unwashed hands
- •Inserting contact lenses without disinfecting them
- •Leaving eye makeup on overnight
- •Having blepharitis (chronic eyelid inflammation)
How it progresses
3 stages- OnsetSymptoms appear, often triggered by a known cause.Often missed
- Active phaseSymptoms peak; self-care or short treatment usually helps.
- ResolutionSymptoms ease over days to weeks with proper care.
How it's diagnosed
- •Physical examination of the eyelid
- •Medical history review
- •Visual inspection using a slit lamp (rarely required)
Treatment options
General educational information only — no dosage advice. Always follow guidance from a qualified clinician.
- •Topical antibiotic ointments or drops
- •Over-the-counter pain relievers
- •Professional incision and drainage if persistent
- •Applying warm compresses for 10-15 minutes
- •Gently massaging the area with clean hands
- •Avoiding contact lenses until healed
- •Keeping the eyelid clean with mild soap or eyelid wipes
- •Warm compresses to encourage drainage
Complications
- •Reduced quality of life
- •Worsening symptoms over time
- •Recurrence of stye (hordeolum)
Prevention
- •Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- •See a clinician for routine check-ups
When to seek help
- •Symptoms persist beyond a few days
- •Symptoms interfere with daily activities
- •New or worsening symptoms appear
- •Concerning changes related to stye (hordeolum)
- Vision changes or blurring
- Swelling spreading to the cheek or forehead
- The eye itself becomes very red or painful
- The stye does not improve after 48 hours of home care
In any emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.
Real-world questions
- ›Can Stye (Hordeolum) cause headaches?
- ›Is Stye (Hordeolum) reversible?
- ›How quickly does Stye (Hordeolum) progress?
- ›Is Stye (Hordeolum) hereditary?
- ›Can Stye (Hordeolum) be prevented?
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Frequently asked questions
Possible causes of Stye (Hordeolum) include Staphylococcal bacteria infection, Clogged oil gland on the eyelid margin, Infected eyelash follicle.
Stye (Hordeolum) is generally mild, but severity can vary. Seek care if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Duration varies between individuals. Many cases improve with appropriate care, while others may persist longer and require ongoing management.
Some milder cases may improve with rest and self-care. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.
Consider seeing a clinician if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or if you have any concerns related to general.
Sources
Information based on general medical references such as:
Last reviewed: May 2026