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Below are links to pages that speak to diseases, conditions, treatments and procedures that we commonly see in the field of retina specialty. While many of the diseases we treat or services we provide are not listed, we are continually adding to this section to provide further educational materials to improve your health care experience.

Eye Care Instructions for a Sty

What is a sty?

A sty (or stye; also called a hordeolum, say hor-dee-oh-lum) is an acute condition and appears as a small, red bump that develops near the eye, most often on the edge of the eyelid. It may look like a pimple, and it usually hurts. A sty does not harm vision and usually goes away on its own.

Another type of eyelid bump often mistaken for a sty is a chalazion (say kuh-lay-zee-un). A chalazion is a chronic condition caused by an enlarged, blocked oil gland in the eyelid. The symptoms of the two conditions are similar for the first few days, but later a chalazion turns into a hard, painless bump.

What causes a sty?

• A sty is generally not an infection and is actually secondary to a blockade of the Meibomium glands, causing a back up oily secretions. Acutely, these are painful and some people may also have a blepharitis.
• The bacteria may come from rubbing the nose and then rubbing the eye or from touching the eye with hands that are not clean.
• Sties can be triggered by stress or not eating a healthy diet.

What are the signs of a sty?

A sty may cause
• A swollen and painful area on the eyelid
• A red bump along the eyelash line that forms a pimple
• Watering or itching of the affected eye
• A feeling that something is in the eye
• Sensitivity to light

What should be done for a sty?

• Warm compresses
• Never “pop” as this may lead to an infection