Sty

Definition

Sty is a bump on the eyelid due to inflammation of the oil gland.

There can be more than one sty at a time.

Alternative names

Hordeolum

Causes, incidence and risk factors

Sty may be caused due to bacterial infection of the oil gland generally by Staphylococcus aureus. It causes blocking of the oil glands of the eyelid. It may be caused due to stress, poor nutrition or inadequate sleep. Sties get drained on their own and heal. If the oil glands get blocked completely due to inflammation it may lead to chalazion. If chalazion becomes larger it can interfere with vision.

Sties can be caused in individuals of any age.

Having blepharitis is a risk factor for sty.

Symptoms

Sensitivity to light, tearing, feeling of foreign object in the eye, scratchy or granular sensation or tenderness of the eye are the symptoms of sty.

Sighs and tests

The condition can be diagnosed by visual examination of the eye and no special tests are required.

Treatment

Application of warm compresses for ten minutes for four times in a day is helpful. The eye should not be squeezed and should be allowed to drain on its own. In case of recurrent pr persistent sties application of antibiotic cream is helpful as treatment to prevent recurrence. Erythromycin is used for the treatment and to prevent secondary infections. For recurrent or persistent sty lancing facilitates draining of the sty but it should be done by doctor only.

Expectations (Prognosis)

Generally no treatment is required, they get cured on their own or by simple treatments. They may be recurrent.

Complications

Recurrence of sties, spread of infection to adjacent follicles of eyelashes and spread of infection to eyelid tissue are the possible complications of sties.

Calling your health care provide

If there are symptoms of sties, it is recurrent or persistent, does not disappear by self care, if the inflammation and redness spreads on the face or the symptoms worsen then it is better to call the health care provider.

Prevention

Washing the hands properly before touching the eyes, keeping the contact lenses clean, taking care with cosmetics and washing oil from the eyelids can prevent sties from developing.

Reference

Nih.gov, wikipedia.com, mayoclinic.com