How to Get Rid of a Stye
To get rid of a stye, you should apply a warm compress, clean the eyelid gently, use over-the-counter medicines, and don’t poke or squeeze the stye. Consult a healthcare provider if the stye persists or worsens.
A stye, also generally known as a hordeolum, is a painful lump near the edge of your eyelid.
It’s usually caused by a bacterial infection in the eyelash follicles or oil glands of the eye. Here’s how to get rid of a stye.
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The Ways to Treat or Get Rid of a Stye
1. Use a Warm Compress
Applying a warm compress to your stye can help soothe the discomfort and encourage the stye to drain on its own.
Make sure the compress is clean and warm, not hot. Do this several times a day for about 10 to 15 minutes each time.
2. Use a Warm Tea Bag
Are tea bags good for styes? Absolutely, yes!
Similarly, a warm tea bag can also be used as a compress.
The antibacterial properties and tannins in the tea may help reduce swelling and heal the stye fast.
Use a clean, warm tea bag (black tea is commonly recommended), and apply it to the stye for 10-15 minutes, several times a day.
3. Clean Your Eyelid
Keeping your eyelid clean can help to speed up the healing process.
Use a mild, non-irritating soap and water or a saline solution. After washing, gently pat your eyelid dry with a clean towel.
4. Over-the-Counter Treatments
Over-the-counter treatments, such as eye ointments or drops, can help to alleviate the symptoms of a stye.
These treatments often contain ingredients to soothe irritation and inflammation.
5. Avoid Wearing Makeup and Contact Lenses
It’s best to avoid wearing makeup and contact lenses while you have a stye, as these can irritate the stye and possibly lead to a more severe infection.
6. Don’t Squeeze or Poke the Stye
Resist the urge to squeeze or poke the stye. This can spread the infection and cause further complications.
7. Visit Your Healthcare Provider
If your stye isn’t improving after a few days or getting worse, it’s time to visit your healthcare provider. They may prescribe antibiotics or even drain the stye if necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes a stye?
A stye is typically caused by a bacterial infection, often from the Staphylococcus species, in the oil glands of the eyelid.
This infection can result from poor eyelid hygiene, the use of outdated or infected cosmetics, or irritation from contact lenses.
How can I prevent a stye?
Preventing a stye actually involves maintaining good eyelid hygiene.
This includes not rubbing your eyes with dirty hands, removing eye makeup before sleeping, not sharing eye cosmetics, replacing eye cosmetics every 3-6 months, and properly cleaning contact lenses.
When should I seek medical attention for a stye?
You should seek medical attention if the stye doesn’t start to improve after 48 hours, worsens, causes vision problems, or is accompanied by a fever.
Also, seek immediate medical help if the swelling extends to the cheek or other parts of the face.
What treatments are available for a stye?
Most styes resolve on their own within a few days.
Warm compresses can help speed up the healing process.
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate any discomfort.
In some cases, a doctor may prescribe antibiotic ointments or drops or, in rare cases, may need to drain the stye.
Do not attempt to pop or squeeze the stye yourself, as this can spread the infection.
The Bottom Line
While it’s possible to manage and treat a stye at home, you should always seek medical advice if your symptoms persist or worsen. Remember, proper hygiene and prompt treatment can help you effectively get rid of a stye and prevent future ones.
