Sty | Accent Eye Care

A sty is an infection that occurs on the outside or inner surface of the eyelid. It looks like a pimple or bump that is red, swollen, and painful. While most sties are innocuous and go away within a few days, they are tender and sore. If they interfere with your vision or are filled with pus, call your eye care professional immediately.

Signs and symptoms include, pain and swelling of the eyelid, as well as tearing and the developing boil or a spot that is red.

Causes

Our eyelids are lined with oil glands to keep the tissue lubricated. When an oil gland becomes infected, a sty can develop. Most infections are bacterial in nature, caused by the bacterium staphylococcus.

Risk factors

Several elements increase the chances of acquiring a sty, which include:

• Poor or infrequent hand washing
• Rubbing or touching your eyes
• Using dated or old mascara and eye make-up
• Not washing and removing eye make-up before going to sleep
• Placing contact lenses in your eyes without washing your hands
• Failing to disinfect your contact lenses appropriately
• Predisposed to a skin disorder called rosacea or have chronic blepharitis

Self-care

If a sty develops and you are unable to get in to see your doctor at Accent Eyes, try applying a warm, clean, lint-free cloth to the close eyelid. Leave this compress in place for 5 to 10 minutes, three to four times a day. This technique will provide comfort until you can see your doctor.
See a doctor

In most cases, a sty will improve within 48 hours. Yet in some cases, the swelling and redness will progress past the eyelid. If you see a spread to your face, cheek, and brows, request an appointment with Accent Eyes as soon as possible. They are your best source for all you and your family’s vision needs.