A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a common eye condition characterised by a painful, red lump that develops on the edge of the eyelid. Styes occur when the oil glands in the eyelid become blocked or infected, leading to inflammation and swelling.
Several factors can contribute to the development of a stye, including:
- Poor eyelid hygiene
- Rubbing or touching the eyes with dirty hands
- Using expired or contaminated eye makeup
- Sharing towels or washcloths with someone who has a stye
While styes are typically not serious and often resolve on their own within a few days, they can be uncomfortable and unsightly. To relieve symptoms and promote healing, you can try the following home remedies:
- Apply a warm compress to the affected eye several times a day to help reduce swelling and encourage drainage.
- Avoid squeezing or popping the stye, as this can lead to further inflammation and infection.
- Keep the affected eye clean and avoid wearing makeup or contact lenses until the stye has healed.
- If the stye persists or becomes increasingly painful, consult with an optometrist for further evaluation and treatment.
In some cases, a stye may require medical intervention, such as drainage or antibiotic treatment, to resolve completely. If you're experiencing persistent or severe symptoms, don't hesitate to seek professional eye care.
