STYE

A stye is bacterial infection that occurs when the oil glands in the eyelid get infected by certain bacteria.

SYMPTOMS..

Yellowish Discharge
Eyelid swelling
Sensitivity to light
Tender eyelids
Watery eyes
Gritty feeling in the eye
Eyelid pain

RISKS FACTORS

Some factors that increase the risk of bacteria entering the eye and causing a stye include:

Using contaminated eyeliner or mascara
Inflammation of the eyelid/Blepharitis
Leaving makeup on overnight
Touching the eyes with unwashed hands
Diabetes
Inserting contact lenses without thoroughly disinfecting them

The risk of getting a stye increases if one has had a stye before.

HOW TO PREVENT A STYE

Wash your hands properly before touching your eyes
Take medication to relieve any allergies and itching you may have
Clean contact lenses properly before using them

If you do get a stye, some actions you can take in order to heal faster

Wash your hands frequently
Avoid wearing makeup till the stye is completely healed
Discard old eye makeup
Stay away from contact lenses

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

Most styes will resolve on their own after a few days. However, you should contact your doctor if:

The stye does not show signs of improvement after a few days
Other parts of the eye and face start to swell
Your vision is affected

TREATMENT

A warm compress is the primary home remedy for a stye. This can be achieved by soaking a clean wash cloth in hot water till it is warm (It should be at a temperature that the skin can tolerate). Place the warm wash cloth over the affected eye for 10 mins. Repeat this three to four times a day.

Most styes will go away on their own in a few days, However, if a stye does not heal on its own, visit your doctor so that appropriate medication can be prescribed.

Try not to pop a stye as you can spread the infection to the rest of your eyelid.