A sty is a bacterial infection that occurs inside an oil gland near the base of your eyelid. Sties are usually benign and almost never cause damage to the eye or to vision. A sty should not be confused with a blocked tear duct.
mom sectionmom sectionA sty is a bacterial infection that occurs inside an oil gland near the base of your eyelid. Sties are usually benign and almost never cause damage to the eye or to vision. A sty should not be confused with a blocked tear duct.
Wash your hands with soap and water before touching the eye area.
Soak a clean washcloth in warm or hot water.
Wring it out and place it directly on the affected eyelid. Make sure to keep the eye closed.
Keep the washcloth on the eyelid for about 10 minutes.
Repeat this three to four times a day for best results.
Continue the warm soaks until the sty comes to a head and drains.
Do not touch or squeeze the sty. This can cause the infection to spread.
See a doctor if the sty is still there after two days of self-care, if you have any eye pain, if the sty appears to be getting larger and spreading over the eyelid, or if you have questions or concerns.
