Overview
A stye is a small, painful red lump on the edge of the eyelid, caused by a blocked and infected oil gland or eyelash follicle. It is common and, though tender and unsightly, usually harmless. Most styes come to a head and drain on their own within a week, helped along by warm compresses. They should not be squeezed. A stye that keeps growing, does not settle, or affects vision needs a doctor's attention.
Symptoms
- A red, painful lump on the eyelid edge
- Swelling of part or all of the eyelid
- Tenderness and a gritty feeling in the eye
- Watering of the eye
- A small yellow spot at the centre of the lump
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if a stye does not improve in a week, keeps returning, grows large, or the whole eyelid becomes red and swollen.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- Spreading redness and swelling of the whole eyelid and face with fever, or changes in vision — seek care urgently
Causes
Bacterial infection of an eyelid oil gland or eyelash follicle, more likely with blocked glands, eye rubbing and old eye make-up.