Stye on the eyelid: what helps, and when to get care

A stye happens when an oil gland on the edge of the eyelid gets blocked and germs grow inside. It usually develops over a few days. A stye can turn into a chalazion, a firm bump that happens when the gland gets fully blocked.

• Hold a warm, wet cloth on the bump for 10 minutes, 4 times a day.
• Do not squeeze or pop a stye. Let it drain on its own.
• Do not wear contact lenses or eye makeup until it heals.

If it does not get better, a doctor may prescribe an antibiotic ointment, or open and drain it. Do not try to drain it at home.

Get emergency care right away for swelling and redness that spread around the whole eye, fever, pain when you move your eye, an eye that bulges out, not being able to open the eye, or a change in your vision. These can be signs of an infection around the eye, which can get worse fast, especially in children. Also get emergency care for an eye injury or a chemical in the eye. If you wear contact lenses and have eye pain, redness or discharge beyond the bump, take out your lenses and call an eye doctor right away.

See a doctor in person for:

• Eye pain that is more than mild
• Strong sensitivity to light, or redness of the eye itself
• A bump that keeps coming back in the exact same spot
• A bump that changes the shape of the eyelid edge, or eyelashes falling out near it

If you are in Virginia or West Virginia, you can start a visit online at any time. It is for adults and children 4 and older (with a parent or legal guardian) with a small, tender bump on the eyelid. You send a clear photo of the eyelid.

A board-certified physician reviews your answers and photo. Some styes get better with warm compresses alone. If medicine is right for you, the doctor can send a prescription to your pharmacy. If you need to be seen in person, the doctor will tell you.

It is not for anyone with the signs above.

Visits start at $59. You see the price before you pay, and you do not need insurance.