Stye

Signs & Symptoms

• Red, painful bump or sore on an eyelid.
• Watery or tearing eye that burns and itches.
• The red bump may form a head and appears yellow if it contains pus. This usually drains on its own within days.

A stye is an infection in a tiny gland of the eyelid.

Causes

Sties form from clogged oil glands at the base of an eyelash.

Treatment

Most sties respond well to self-care and don’t need further treatment.

Self-Care / Prevention

• Wash your hands often.
• Don’t touch your eyes with your fingers. Use a tissue instead.
• Use clean washcloths and towels each time you wash your face.
• Don’t share washcloths, towels, makeup, or eye drops with others.
• Don’t expose your eyes to excessive dust or dirt.

Relieve Discomfort of a Stye

• Apply warm (not hot), wet compresses to the affected area 3 to 4 times a day for 5 to 10 minutes at a time. Use a clean washcloth each time.
• Don’t poke or squeeze the stye. A more serious infection could occur.
• If the stye drains on its own, gently wash the pus away with a mild, soapy solution made from half baby shampoo and half water. Or use eyelid wipes.