What should you know about golden eye stye?

A stye, also called a hordeolum, is an inflamed gland near the edge of the eyelid. It may look like a small red swelling, feel sore when touched and develop a visible spot. Watery eyes or a little crusting can occur. A stye is different from a deeper, usually less tender blocked-gland lump called a chalazion. Red eye or eye discharge can also have other causes, including infection, so appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis.

Place a clean, comfortably warm cloth over the closed eyelid for several minutes, refreshing it as it cools, and repeat through the day. Wash your hands before and after touching the area. Do not squeeze, pierce or rub the lump. Avoid eye makeup and contact lenses until the eye has settled, and do not share towels or cosmetics. A pharmacist or clinician can advise whether treatment is needed if it persists or keeps returning.

Arrange a GP consultation if swelling spreads beyond the eyelid, the eye becomes increasingly painful, discharge is heavy, vision changes, light hurts, or the problem is not improving. Seek urgent assessment for severe eye pain, sudden vision loss, marked swelling around the eye, fever with worsening redness, or difficulty moving the eye.

Ask whether the lump is a stye or another eyelid problem, how long to continue warm compresses, and whether you should pause contact lenses or makeup for longer. Mention any recurrent episodes or skin conditions affecting your eyelids.