Stye Trouble?

What is a Stye???

A small, red bump along the edge of the eyelid is often a stye, also known as a hordeolum. They are most commonly caused by a bacterial infection in an eyelash follicle or a meibomian gland in the eyelid. They can appear like a pimple, can be swollen and sore. 

Do you get them often??

They are associated with poor hygiene, contact lens use, blepharitis, rosacea, seborrheic dermatitis and using old eye make up. 

What to do??

Frequent warm compresses are the best method of resolving styes, and they should get better in a few days. Do not squeeze it.... as this can spread the infection. If it gets worse or is painful, see your eye care professional. 

To prevent styes always practice good eyelid hygiene to keep the lids clean, if you wear contact lenses follow the advice your eye care professional, replace your eye make up frequently as directed, wash make up brushes and applicators, and never share make up. Never mix saliva with make up and touching your mouth or nose and then your eyes is never a good idea. If in doubt, see your eye care professional for advice around if you have blepharitis or for individualised advice for eyelid hygiene.