Stye – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Doctors usually check your eyelid for signs like a red lump, swelling, or tenderness.
They use magnifiers and lights to get a better look at the oil glands, eyelash area, or any pus buildup. They may also ask about your hygiene routine, makeup habits, or any past eye problems that could make styes more likely.
Most of the time, they don’t need special tests for styes, chalazions, or blepharitis.
Treatment
Most styes get better on their own, but you can do a few things to speed up healing. Try putting a warm, moist cloth on the area several times a day. It helps with the pain and encourages the stye to drain.
| Treatment Method | When Used |
|---|---|
| Warm Compress | First choice |
| Topical Antibiotics | Persistent infection |
| Oral Antibiotics | Severe or spreading cases |
| Surgical Drainage | Non-healing or large styes |
If things aren’t improving or the infection gets worse, your doctor might suggest a few options:
- Antibiotics: You might get ointments, drops, or pills if the infection looks strong or starts to spread.
- Draining the Stye: Sometimes, the doctor makes a tiny cut to let the pus out if the swelling just won’t go away.
Doctors often choose antibiotics if bacteria seem to be the culprit. In rare cases, you might need surgery or a biopsy—usually only if the stye sticks around too long, turns into an abscess, or just doesn’t respond to anything else.
Keeping your eyelids clean really does lower your chances of getting another stye.
Self care
You can manage a stye at home by easing pain, keeping your eyelid clean, and stopping the infection from spreading. A warm compress really helps with comfort and healing.
Just place a clean, warm washcloth over your eye for 5 to 10 minutes. You can repeat this two or three times a day—it’ll help with drainage and soothe the soreness.
Good eyelid hygiene matters. Gently wash your eyelid with mild soap or a little baby shampoo mixed with water. Try not to rub, squeeze, or pop the stye. That can make things worse.
Skip eye makeup and contact lenses until your eye heals. These can spread bacteria and slow down recovery.
Simple tips for prevention:
- Wash your hands before touching your face or eyes
- Don’t share towels or pillowcases
- Replace eye makeup regularly
- Use a gentle lid scrub if your doctor suggests it
Taking these steps helps you heal and lowers your risk of getting another stye.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
If you’re planning to see a healthcare provider about a stye, a little prep goes a long way.
- Write down your symptoms, even if they seem minor.
- Include any changes in your vision or pain.
- Think about any recent events, stress, or health issues that might be connected.
- List any allergies or past eye problems.
- Bring an updated chart of all the medicines, vitamins, or supplements you’re taking.
That way, your provider can check if anything might affect your eyes. It’s smart to prepare some questions ahead of time.
Ask how long the stye might last, if it’s contagious, or what treatments you might need. You can also ask if it’s safe to wear contact lenses or if you might need a referral to an eye specialist.
Sample Questions to Ask:
- What is causing the stye?
- When is it likely to go away?
- Could it spread to others?
- Are any special tests required?
- What treatment options do I have?
- What are the pros and cons of treatment?
- Can I keep wearing contacts?
- Is a less expensive option available?
- Are there resources for further reading?
- Is a follow-up needed?
Going in with questions and your health info helps you get the most out of your visit.
