What Is a Stye?
A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a small, painful lump that develops on the eyelid due to infection of an eyelash follicle or oil gland. It usually appears as a red, swollen bump and may develop a yellow centre as pus collects.
Styes are common and can affect people of all ages. They are usually short-lived and settle with simple care.
What Causes a Stye?
Styes are most commonly caused by:
- Bacterial infection, usually Staphylococcus
- Blocked oil glands along the eyelid margin
- Poor eyelid hygiene
- Touching or rubbing the eyes with unclean hands
- Underlying conditions such as blepharitis
What Are the Common Symptoms of a Stye?
You may notice:
- A red, tender lump on the eyelid
- Swelling of the eyelid
- Pain or soreness, especially when blinking
- A yellow or white head on the lump
- Watery eye or mild irritation
How Is a Stye Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually clinical and based on:
- Appearance of the eyelid lump
- Symptoms and duration
Online GP consultations can assess styes visually and advise on management. In-person review may be needed if the diagnosis is unclear or symptoms are worsening.
How Long Does a Stye Last?
- Most styes improve within 3–7 days
- Complete resolution may take up to 1–2 weeks
- Warm compresses often speed up recovery
Is a Stye Contagious?
No. A stye itself is not contagious, although the bacteria involved can spread with poor hygiene.
How to Feel Better and Recover Quickly
Self-Care at Home:
- Apply warm compresses to the eyelid for 10–15 minutes, 3–4 times daily
- Gently clean the eyelid margins
- Avoid squeezing or popping the stye
- Avoid eye makeup and contact lenses until healed
Treatment from a GP:
- Advice on eyelid hygiene and symptom control
- Antibiotic eye ointment if infection spreads or persists
- Pain relief advice if needed
When Referral Is Needed:
- Recurrent styes
- Failure to improve after 1–2 weeks
- Suspicion of chalazion or other eyelid conditions
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Seek urgent medical attention in A&E or urgent care if:
- Severe swelling spreading around the eye
- Increasing pain, redness, or fever
- Visual changes or difficulty opening the eye
- Symptoms following eye injury
How Dr.Online UK Can Help
We offer:
- Same-day online GP appointments
- Assessment and advice for styes
- Prescriptions if appropriate
- Guidance on preventing recurrence
