Styes

Alternative names:

hordeolum; infection of eyelash follicle

Treatment:

Styes can be treated by applying warm compresses for 10 minutes, 4 times a day. Do not attempt to squeeze the stye; let it burst on its own.

Antibiotic creams are sometimes used for recurrent or persistent styes (caused by bacteria). Occasionally styes require lancing to drain the infection.

Expectations (prognosis):

Styes often resolve on their own or they may recur. The outcome is excellent with treatment.

Complications:

• recurrence of stye
• spread of infection to other eyelash follicles
• spread of infection to the tissue of the eyelid

Calling your health care provider:

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if lumps on the eyelid continue to enlarge or do not resolve spontaneously within a week or two.