Ophthalmology, by video or in person
Stye (Eyelid Lump)
The signs, the danger signs that mean hospital now, and how to see a doctor by video from anywhere in Nigeria.
Signs to look for
Stye (Eyelid Lump)
- A painful red lump on the edge of the eyelid
- A yellow spot of pus on the lump
- Swelling of part of the eyelid
- A watery or gritty eye
- Crusting along the lashes
A stye is a small, painful lump on the edge of the eyelid, caused by an infected oil gland or eyelash root. It often looks like a pimple and may fill with pus. Most styes burst and heal by themselves within a week. Warm compresses held on the eyelid several times a day help it drain. A painless lump further back in the eyelid that lasts for weeks is usually a chalazion, a blocked gland, which also often settles with warm compresses. Swelling of the whole eyelid with fever is different and needs urgent care.
Medically reviewed by Dr Debo Odulana, Founder and Chief Executive, Mezo. Last reviewed . This page is general information, not a diagnosis. Care is decided with you after an examination.
Symptoms
- A painful red lump on the edge of the eyelid
- A yellow spot of pus on the lump
- Swelling of part of the eyelid
- A watery or gritty eye
- Crusting along the lashes
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if a stye has not improved after a week of warm compresses, keeps coming back, or a lump in the eyelid lasts for weeks. Go to an eye hospital or emergency department the same day if the whole eyelid is swollen and red, the eye is painful to move or bulging, your vision changes, or you have a fever with the swelling.
Treatment options
- Warm compresses: a clean cloth soaked in warm water, held on the eyelid for ten minutes, three or four times a day
- Gently cleaning the lashes
- Leaving the stye to drain by itself, without squeezing
- Avoiding eye make-up and contact lenses until it heals
- Antibiotics only if the infection spreads, as a doctor advises
Common Questions
Can I squeeze a stye?
No. Squeezing can spread infection into the eyelid. Warm compresses help it drain safely.
Is a stye contagious?
Not usually, but do not share towels or eye make-up, and wash your hands after touching the eye.
Do I need antibiotic eye drops?
Usually not. Most styes clear with warm compresses. A doctor will advise antibiotics if the infection is spreading.
Need Help?
A doctor on a video call, who advises on the right test and treatment, and tells you if you need to be seen in person.
See a doctor by videoIf any of the danger signs on this page applies, go to the nearest hospital now instead.
Find a verified ophthalmology specialist near you.
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