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What Is an Eye Stye (Hordeolum)?

An eye stye, or hordeolum, is a painful red bump on the eyelid caused by an infected oil gland or eyelash follicle. It often looks like a small pimple at the lid margin and can cause swelling, tearing, and tenderness. Most styes contain bacteria, usually Staphylococcus aureus. They often resolve on their own but sometimes need medical care if they grow larger or affect vision. Styes can occur on the outer or inner eyelid depending on which gland becomes infected.

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What Is an Eye Stye (Hordeolum)?

An eye stye, or hordeolum, is a painful red bump on the eyelid caused by an infected oil gland or eyelash follicle. It often looks like a small pimple at the lid margin and can cause swelling, tearing, and tenderness. Most styes contain bacteria, usually Staphylococcus aureus. They often resolve on their own but sometimes need medical care if they grow larger or affect vision. Styes can occur on the outer or inner eyelid depending on which gland becomes infected.

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What Causes an Eye Stye?

An eye stye develops when bacteria block an oil gland or eyelash follicle. Makeup residue, rubbing the eyes, and poor lid hygiene can increase the chance of blockage. People with blepharitis, oily skin, or a history of styes tend to have more frequent episodes. Stress, hormone changes, and wearing old or contaminated cosmetics can also play a role. When the gland becomes inflamed, it forms a painful lump that can fill with pus.

Common Symptoms of an Eye Stye

Eye styes show several clear signs.

  • A tender, red bump forms near the lash line or within the eyelid.
  • Swelling can spread to the entire lid, making it puffy and sore.
  • Light sensitivity, tearing, or a gritty sensation can appear.
  • A stye may come to a visible head like a pimple, which sometimes drains on its own.
  • Some styes feel deep and painful even before a bump becomes visible.

How Is an Eye Stye Diagnosed?

Doctors diagnose a stye by examining the eyelid and looking for a blocked gland or inflamed follicle. They check for signs of infection, drainage, or associated blepharitis. A bright light and magnification help assess the eyelid margins. Most styes are diagnosed based on appearance alone, and additional testing is rarely needed. Doctors may also look for chalazia, which are painless lumps from long term gland blockage.

How Is an Eye Stye Treated?

Treatment often starts with warm compresses several times a day to help the gland drain. Good eyelid hygiene, such as gently cleaning the lid margins, supports healing. Doctors sometimes prescribe antibiotic ointment if bacteria or drainage is prominent. Pain that increases, spreads, or comes with fever requires prompt care to rule out deeper infection. Never squeeze or pop a stye, as this can worsen inflammation or push infection deeper.

Frequently Asked Questions About Eye Styes

Can a stye spread to the other eye?

A stye can spread if bacteria move from one eyelid to the other through rubbing or contaminated hands. Good hand washing and not touching the eyes reduce this risk.

How long does a stye last?

Most styes improve within a few days and clear within one to two weeks. Warm compresses can help them heal faster.

What is the difference between a stye and a chalazion?

A stye is painful and caused by infection, while a chalazion is a painless lump from a blocked gland. Both form on the eyelid but have different causes and treatments.

When should I see a doctor for a stye?

You should see a doctor if the stye is very painful, does not improve in a week, affects vision, or causes swelling around the eye.