Causes of a stye on the eyelid

A stye, also called a hordeolum, is often a small, painful lump near the eyelid edge. Oil, skin debris and bacteria can collect around a blocked gland or lash follicle, producing local swelling, tenderness and redness. Rubbing the eyes, touching them with unwashed hands, removing eye make-up incompletely, or using old eye products may increase irritation. Recurrent styes can occur alongside long-term eyelid-edge inflammation or oily skin conditions. A firm, less painful lump deeper in the lid may be a blocked oil gland rather than an active stye.

Apply a clean, comfortably warm compress to the closed eyelid for several minutes, repeating this through the day. Wash your hands before touching the area, keep the eyelid clean, and pause contact lenses and eye make-up until it settles. Do not squeeze, pierce or pick the lump, as this can spread inflammation. If it does not begin improving, keeps returning, or interferes with vision, arrange a GP Consultation for an examination and advice about treatment.

Seek prompt assessment if swelling spreads around the eye, pain becomes severe, the eyelid is difficult to open, vision changes, or you develop fever. Redness involving the surrounding skin can indicate a more extensive infection. Get urgent help for loss of vision, marked light sensitivity, severe eye pain or an eye injury. Thick Eye Discharge or a persistent Red Eye may point to another eye problem, so avoid assuming every red or sticky eye is a stye.

Is this a stye or a different eyelid lump? Could eyelid inflammation be contributing to repeated episodes? What should I use or avoid if I wear contact lenses?