Introduction
A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a small, painful bump on the eyelid that is caused by a bacterial infection. The infection typically occurs in one of the small oil glands that line the eyelid. Styes are common, and they can affect people of all ages.
How Long Will a Stye Last?
The average stye lasts for about 7-10 days. However, some styes may last for longer or shorter periods of time. The duration of a stye depends on several factors, including the severity of the infection, the location of the stye, and the person’s overall health.
Symptoms of a Stye
The most common symptom of a stye is a small, painful bump on the eyelid. The bump may be red, swollen, and tender to the touch. Other symptoms of a stye can include:
- Blurred vision
- Sensitivity to light
- Tearing
- Crusting of the eyelid
- Swelling of the eyelid
Causes of a Stye
Styes are caused by a bacterial infection of one of the small oil glands that line the eyelid. The bacteria that most commonly cause styes is Staphylococcus aureus.
Risk Factors for Styes
Several factors can increase the risk of developing a stye, including:
- Having blepharitis, a chronic inflammation of the eyelid
- Having a weakened immune system
- Touching your eyes with dirty hands
- Using contaminated eye makeup
- Wearing contact lenses for long periods of time
Treatment for Styes
Most styes will go away on their own within 7-10 days. However, there are several things you can do to help speed up the healing process, including:
- Applying a warm compress to the stye for 10-15 minutes several times a day
- Gently massaging the stye to help drain the pus
- Using over-the-counter antibiotic eye drops or ointments
- Taking oral antibiotics if the stye is severe
Prevention of Styes
There are several things you can do to help prevent styes, including:
- Washing your hands frequently
- Avoiding touching your eyes with dirty hands
- Using clean eye makeup and contact lenses
- Replacing your contact lenses regularly
- Getting enough sleep
- Eating a healthy diet
Complications of Styes
In rare cases, a stye can lead to serious complications, such as:
- Cellulitis, a bacterial infection of the skin around the eye
- Abscess, a collection of pus that forms under the skin
- Endophthalmitis, an infection of the inside of the eye
When to See a Doctor
You should see a doctor if you have a stye that is:
- Severe
- Painful
- Not improving after 7-10 days
- Causing vision problems
Conclusion
Styes are common, but they are usually not serious. Most styes will go away on their own within 7-10 days. However, there are several things you can do to help speed up the healing process and prevent future styes.
