A style (also called a hordeolum) is a red and painful lump on the eyelid.  This occurs when a small gland in the edge of the eyelid become infected or inflamed.  Styes can occur on the upper or the lower eyelid and usually get better on their own after a few days to week even if untreated. Symptoms:  Red or painful lump on the edge of the eyelid.  It often looks like a pimple, and can cause tearing as well as eyelid pain. When to see a healthcare provider: 1)   It doesn’t go away after 1 week. 2)   It gets large, bleeds or affects your vision 3)   The entire eye or eyelid becomes red/swollen 4)   The redness or swelling spread to your cheek or face Home treatments: 1)   Wet a clean wash cloth with warm water and put it over your stye for 10-15 minutes 3-4x/day 2)   DO NOT squeeze or pop the stye 3)   Avoid wearing eye backup or contact lenses Prevention: 1)   Wash your hands before touching your eyes or eyelids 2)   Wash your hands before putting in contact lenses and keep the lenses them clean 3)   Take off eye makeup at night if you use it 4)   Do not use old eye makeup or share with others Medical provider treatments:  Most of the time we prescribe antibiotic ointments or drops if the stye is not improving on its own.  If it persists or gets larger, a referral to an eye doctor is usually made who can drain the stye. The American Academy of Ophthalmology has a great resource for locating an ophthalmologist near you: http://www.aao.org/find_eyemd.cfm   I hope that you have found this information useful.  Wishing you the best of health,

Scott Rennie, D.O.
Board Certified in Obesity Medicine and Family Medicine

This blog is for educational purposes only and does not constitute individual medical advice. Always consult your own physician before making changes to your health, medications, or treatment plan.