Styes, also known as hordeolum, are a common eye condition that can be painful and unsightly. They are typically small, red, and inflamed bumps that appear on the eyelid or under the eyelid. In this article, we will discuss what styes look like, their symptoms, and signs, as well as provide information on how to identify and manage this condition.
A stye is essentially a small abscess or pocket of pus that forms on the eyelid or under the eyelid. It is usually caused by a bacterial infection, often Staphylococcus aureus, which enters the body through a blocked oil gland or hair follicle. Styes can be painful and tender to the touch, and may cause redness, swelling, and increased tearing in the affected eye.
Identifying Symptoms and Signs of Styes
The symptoms and signs of styes can vary from person to person, but common indicators include:
- A small, red, and inflamed bump on the eyelid or under the eyelid
- Pain or tenderness to the touch
- Redness and swelling of the eyelid or surrounding area
- Increased tearing or watery discharge
- A feeling of grittiness or irritation in the eye
What Do Styes Look Like?
A stye typically appears as a small, round, or oval-shaped bump on the eyelid or under the eyelid. It may be:
- Red or pink in color
- Swollen and tender to the touch
- Filled with pus or a yellowish discharge
- Surrounded by redness and inflammation
| Characteristics of Styes | Description |
|---|---|
| Color | Red or pink |
| Shape | Small, round, or oval-shaped |
| Size | Usually 1-5 mm in diameter |
| Texture | Tender and swollen |
Key Points
- Styes are small, red, and inflamed bumps that appear on the eyelid or under the eyelid.
- They are usually caused by a bacterial infection, often Staphylococcus aureus.
- Common symptoms include pain, redness, swelling, and increased tearing.
- Styes can be treated with self-care and home remedies, but persistent or severe symptoms require medical attention.
- It is essential to practice good hygiene and avoid touching or rubbing the affected eye to prevent the spread of infection.
Managing Styes
While styes can be painful and unsightly, they are usually harmless and can be managed with self-care and home remedies. Here are some tips:
Apply a warm compress to the affected area to help bring the stye to a head and promote drainage.
Keep the affected area clean and avoid touching or rubbing the eye to prevent the spread of infection.
Use over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, to manage pain and discomfort.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While styes are usually harmless, there are certain situations where medical attention is necessary. Seek medical attention if:
- Your symptoms persist or worsen over time
- You experience severe pain or vision changes
- You have a fever or swelling that spreads beyond the eyelid
- You have a stye that does not improve with self-care and home remedies
What causes styes?
+Styes are usually caused by a bacterial infection, often Staphylococcus aureus, which enters the body through a blocked oil gland or hair follicle.
Are styes contagious?
+No, styes are not contagious. However, it is essential to practice good hygiene and avoid touching or rubbing the affected eye to prevent the spread of infection.
How long do styes last?
+Styes usually resolve on their own within 1-2 weeks with self-care and home remedies. However, persistent or severe symptoms may require medical attention.