What are the symptoms of a stye?
People with a stye may experience the following symptoms:
- A painful bump on the eyelid
- Swelling of the eyelid
- Redness around the bump
- Feeling like something is in your eye
- Sensitivity to light
- Crusty eyelids or lashes
- Tearing or watery eyes
What causes a stye?
A stye is usually caused by bacteria that infect the eyelid glands. Other factors that can contribute include:
- Touching your eyes with dirty hands
- Poor hygiene
- Using old or contaminated makeup
- Skin conditions like acne or dermatitis
How common are styes?
Styes are quite common and can affect anyone, but they are especially seen in teenagers and adults. Most people will experience a stye at some point in their lives.
Who is more likely to get a stye?
Certain factors may increase the chance of getting a stye, including:
- Having a skin condition
- Touching your eyes often
- Wearing eye makeup
- Having a history of styes
How can I treat a stye?
Most styes can be treated at home. Here are some helpful methods:
- Applying warm compresses to the affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes several times a day
- Keeping the area clean and avoiding touching your eyes
- Avoiding wearing eye makeup while the stye is healing
- Using over-the-counter pain relief if needed
Powered by pharmacies
With over 1,700 pharmacy partners across the UK, you can get the help you need, wherever you are based.
Our website and mobile app make it easy and convenient to manage your health needs and book services at a pharmacy nearby.
How to prevent styes?
To help prevent styes, consider these tips:
- Wash your hands regularly, especially before touching your eyes
- Remove eye makeup before going to bed
- Use clean towels and pillowcases
- Avoid sharing makeup and personal items
How to live with a stye?
If you have a stye, you may need to adjust some of your daily activities until it heals. Here are some tips:
- Avoid wearing contact lenses until the stye is gone
- Be gentle with your eyes and avoid rubbing them
- Stay patient; most styes heal within a week or two
Final thoughts
A stye is a common eye issue that usually goes away on its own. If you have any concerns, it’s best to speak to your GP or healthcare provider.
