Eye stye treatment and self-care

A stye is an inflamed eyelid gland or lash follicle. Gentle warmth can soften material around the blocked opening and encourage natural drainage. It should feel warm rather than hot; pressure, rubbing, and puncturing can irritate the lid or spread inflammation. Antibiotic treatment is not automatically needed. A clinician may consider treatment when infection extends beyond the lid, the problem persists, or episodes recur.

Clean your hands, wet a fresh clean cloth with comfortably warm water, wring it out, and rest it over the closed eyelid for several minutes. Re-warm it as needed and repeat through the day. Stop using eye makeup and contact lenses while symptoms remain. Never use someone else’s drops, old prescription medicine, or a shared towel. If the bump is not improving, arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/).

Seek prompt medical advice if pain or swelling is severe, the redness spreads into the surrounding skin, or opening the eye becomes difficult. Urgent assessment is needed for fever, pain when moving the eye, light sensitivity, or any reduced vision. A clinician can examine the lid and eye surface, check whether another condition is present, and decide whether medicine or a procedure is appropriate.

You could ask: Does this need prescription treatment? How should I clean the eyelid? When can I restart contact lenses or makeup? What could explain repeated styes, and which warning signs should send me back for review?