Does a GP consultation treat a stye?

A stye is a tender, inflamed lump near the edge of an eyelid. The GP can examine the eyelid and check that the problem is not a blocked gland, skin infection or another eye condition. Many styes improve with warm compresses and gentle eyelid care. If the swelling is extensive, keeps returning or affects vision, the GP may prescribe treatment or refer you for specialist assessment.

A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can also help when the diagnosis is uncertain.

Place a clean, comfortably warm cloth over the closed eyelid for several minutes, repeating this through the day. Wash your hands before touching the eye, and avoid squeezing or bursting the lump. Pause contact lenses and eye makeup until the eyelid has settled. Do not use someone else’s eye drops or apply creams close to the eye unless a clinician advises it.

Get urgent medical advice if vision changes, eye movement becomes painful, the eye itself is very red, swelling spreads around the eye, or you feel generally unwell. Arrange a GP review if the lump is not improving, repeatedly returns or interferes with sight.

Ask whether the lump looks like a stye, how to use warm compresses safely, whether you should stop any eye products, and what changes would mean you need an eye specialist.