Stye (Hordeolum)

Overview

A stye is a blockage of either an oil gland (meibomian gland) or a hair follicle for an eyelash. The meibomian glands secrete oils onto the tear film and when one of them becomes blocked, oils can build up, causing swelling and may even become infected. The eyelid will often become red, swollen and may become painful and tender. Styes are relatively common and are often associated with chronic blepharitis as well as people with diabetes and acne problems. There are two types of hordeola: internal and external. Both can be caused by blepharitis, but the glands involved are different and the area of the eyelid affected is different.

Hordeolum vs. Chalazion

Both chalazia and hordeola are considered to be “styes” and both appear as swollen lumps on the upper or lower eyelid. However, unlike a chalazium, hordeola are infectious and can be painful. Learn more about chalazia.

Treatment of a Stye

While styes can be self-resolving, the standard therapy for a stye is 15-20 minutes of warm compresses 3-4 times per day, followed by gentle massage of the swollen area to encourage drainage of the blocked gland. Antibiotic therapy may also be indicated in order to prevent secondary conjunctivitis as the gland drains onto the surface of the eye. With treatment, the stye should completely drain within 2-4 weeks.

Stye Prevention

The formation of styes is best prevented through daily use of warm compresses. This will promote proper drainage of the oil glands and reduce the chances that a gland will become blocked. Treatment of any underlying condition such as blepharitis is also important.

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