How to Keep a Stye Infection From Spreading

A stye infection is a bacterial infection typically occurring inside the eyelid but may occur outside. The red bump is painful and eventually drains after several days. Since it is a bacterial infection, it can spread easily. Certain steps can be taken in order to keep one from spreading.

Instructions

1. Get treatment early for any one you notice. A proactive step will speed the healing process and can avoid others from appearing.

2. Clean the outside of your eyelids everyday. Use a cotton ball or swab and dip in a mixture of very mild soap and warm water. Gently wipe your eyelid while your eyes are closed.

3. Avoid contact with any items to the eye unless you're certain they're free of bacteria. Items to avoid include cosmetics older than 6 months, dirty hands or unclean towels and washcloths.

4. Keep your hands washed. Applying dirty hands to the eye area always poses a risk of spreading or introducing bacteria.

5. Apply warm compresses once you notice a stye. Use a washcloth or disposable cloth with very warm water and apply to the eyelid area to prevent any additional blockage of the eyelid glands. Make sure to wash the cloth separately in hot water so you do not spread to anyone else in the household.

6. Consider a natural approach. Apply herbal raspberry tea or a coriander seed mixture with a cotton ball. Start from the inside of the eye and rub outward and discard each cotton ball after one use. Mix a spoonful of coriander seeds and a cup of water and boil. Use either 3 to 4 times a day.

7. Do not puncture or pop a stye. If you allow it to puncture on its own, it will keep it from spreading.