What is a sty?
A sty is a red, painful lump near the edge of your eyelid that may look like a boil or a pimple.
A sty usually forms on the outside of your eyelid, but sometimes it can form on the inner part of your eyelid.
In most cases, a sty will begin to disappear on its own in a couple days.
In the meantime, you may be able to relieve the pain or discomfort of a sty by applying a warm washcloth to your eyelid.
As already mentioned, a sty will be removed in a few days without specific treatment, but if it stays for a long time, consult a doctor who will prescribe antibiotic eye drops or cream; It may be necessary to take antibiotics as medication. Sometimes mini surgical intervention is preferred to drain the pus from the gills.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of a sty include:
- A red lump on your eyelid that is similar to a boil or a pimple
- Eyelid pain
- Eyelid swelling
- Tearing
When to see a doctor
Contact your doctor if:
The sty doesn't start to improve after 48 hours
Redness and swelling involves the entire eyelid or extends into your cheek or other parts of your face
Causes
A sty is caused by an infection of oil glands in the eyelid. The bacterium staphylococcus is commonly responsible for most of these infections.
You are at increased risk of a sty if you:
- Touch your eyes with unwashed hands
- Insert your contact lenses without thoroughly disinfecting them or washing your hands first
- Leave on eye makeup overnight
- Use old or expired cosmetics
- Have blepharitis, a chronic inflammation along the edge of the eyelid
- Have rosacea, a skin condition characterized by facial redness
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sty/symptoms-causes/syc-20378017
