Eyelash stye: what to do

A stye, also called a hordeolum, is an inflamed or infected eyelid gland near an eyelash. It may look like a small red pimple and can cause soreness, swelling, watering, crusting, or a gritty feeling. The lump is usually at the lid edge, although swelling can make the whole lid appear puffy. A deeper, firmer lump that is less tender may be a blocked gland rather than an active stye. Eye discharge or a more widespread red eye can point to another problem or an additional infection.

Do not squeeze or pierce the lump. Pressure can irritate the eyelid and spread inflammation. Remove contact lenses and eye make-up until the eye feels normal.

Wash your hands before and after touching the eyelid. Hold a clean, comfortably warm damp cloth over the closed eye for several minutes, repeating it through the day, and refresh the cloth each time. Let the eyelid drain on its own; avoid rubbing, sharing towels, or using another person's drops. Clean away crust gently with clean water. If you use contact lenses, switch to glasses while the eyelid is sore. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether any medicine is suitable, especially if you have eye disease or use regular eye treatment.

Seek urgent assessment for reduced vision, severe eye pain, pain when moving the eye, marked light sensitivity, fever, or swelling that spreads around the eye. Arrange a GP consultation if the lump is not settling, keeps returning, affects both eyes, or is making it difficult to open the eye. Get advice sooner for a child, contact-lens wearer, or anyone with a weakened immune system. A clinician can check whether this is a stye or another eyelid or eye condition.

Does this lump look like a stye or a blocked eyelid gland? How should I clean the lid? Should I stop a particular eye product or contact-lens routine? What changes mean I need same-day assessment?