Sty: An Overview

In its simplest form, a sty is an inflamed swelling or sore on the eyelid. It develops from an accumulation of pus and is surrounded by reddened or swollen skin. While uncomfortable, the condition generally isn’t contagious or serious. A sty tends to resolve itself within a week or two, although there are steps you can take to help reduce its duration.

What Causes a Sty?

Sts are most commonly caused by bacteria such as staphylococcus or streptococcus. These bacteria normally exist on the skin, but can invade Eye when the Eyelid becomes cracked or irritated. This can happen if you rub your eyes or have allergies that irritate the skin around them. Additionally, a sty can form if your eyelashes fall out and the Hair follicles become clogged with bacteria.

Treating a Sty

The best way to treat a sty is to use warm compresses to soften the affected area. Place a warm, wet cloth on your eyelid several times a day for 5-10 minutes at a time. This should soften the sty and help it resolve. Additionally, you can also apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to reduce the risk of infection and make the sty less visible.

If the sty doesn’t improve after two weeks of warm compresses and antibiotic treatment, visit your doctor. They may prescribe steroid medications or perform minor surgery to remove the sty. In rare cases, a sty can be caused by an underlying medical condition, and your doctor can help diagnose and treat it.

In conclusion, a sty is a common and usually harmless condition that affects the eyelid. It can cause redness, swelling, and pain, but typically resolves itself within a few weeks. Warm compresses and antibiotic ointment can help reduce the duration of the sty; however, if symptoms persist, you should visit your doctor for further treatment.