Stye

A stye is an infection deep within the glands beneath the eyelashes or within the oil-secreting glands of the eyelids. A Stye may appear as a red bump that looks very much like a pimple. The stye is usually caused by Staphylococcus bacteria that infect the gland or root of the hair. The eyelids may be red, tender to the touch and swollen. Other symptoms may include redness in the eyes, itch, burning or gritty sensation within the eyes and mucous. Contaminated mascara brushes and eye makeup have been associated with stye formation.

Stye is treated with warm, moist compresses to help the infection to drain and to decrease pain and irritation. Antibiotic ointment may be combined with antibiotic eyedrops or oral medication. The stye shouldn't be expressed manually, rather it should be left to drain. Stye is often secondary to blepharitis (see BLEPHARITIS)