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Stye

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Mar 3, 2024.

What is a stye?

A stye is a lump on the edge or inside of your upper or lower eyelid. A stye usually starts to get better within 1 week and is often gone within 2 weeks.

Eye Anatomy

What causes a stye?

A stye forms when bacteria causes inflammation and infection of a skin gland or follicle. A follicle is the place at the edge of the eyelid where the eyelash comes out. Styes form more often in children and in people who have an eye problem called blepharitis (eyelid inflammation).

What are the signs and symptoms of a stye?

How is a stye diagnosed and treated?

Your healthcare provider will examine your eyelid. Tell your provider about your symptoms and when you first noticed the lump. Antibiotics may be needed to treat the stye. This medicine is given as an ointment to put into your eye.

How do I manage a stye?

Treatment options

The following list of medications are in some way related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

What can I do to prevent another stye?

Wash your face and clean your eyelashes every day. Remove eye makeup with makeup remover. This helps to completely remove eye makeup without heavy rubbing.

When should I call my doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.