Sty (or Stye)
A sty is when the oil gland of the eyelid becomes inflamed. It may develop into an infection with a small pocket of pus (an abscess). This can cause pain, redness, and swelling. In early stages, a sty is treated with antibiotic cream, eye drops, or a small towel soaked in warm water (a warm compress). More severe cases may need to be opened and drained by a healthcare provider.
Home care
-
Eye drops or ointment are often prescribed to treat the infection. Use these as directed.
-
Artificial tears may also be used to lubricate the eye and make it more comfortable. You can buy these over the counter without a prescription. Talk with your healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter treatment for a sty.
-
Apply a warm, damp towel to the affected area for at least 5 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day for a week. Warm compresses open the pores and speed the healing. Make sure the compresses are not too hot, as they may burn your eyelid.
-
Sometimes the sty will drain with this treatment alone. If this happens, keep using the antibiotic until all the redness and swelling are gone.
-
Wash your hands before and after touching the infected eyelid.
-
Don’t squeeze or try to break open the sty.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your healthcare provider, or as advised.
When to seek medical advice
Call your healthcare provider or seek medical care right away if any of these occur:
-
Increase in swelling or redness around the eyelid after 48 to 72 hours
-
Increase in eye pain or the eyelid blisters
-
Increase in warmth—the eyelid feels hot
-
Drainage of blood or thick pus from the sty
-
Blister on the eyelid
-
Inability to open the eyelid due to swelling
-
Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or above, or as directed by your provider
-
Vision changes
-
Headache or stiff neck
-
The sty comes back
© 2000-2022 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.