Inner eye stye: what to know

A stye, also called a hordeolum, develops when an eyelid gland becomes blocked and inflamed. An inner stye forms on the inside of the lid, so the swelling may be easier to feel than see. The lid can look red, feel sore when blinking, and produce watering or a small amount of discharge. It is different from a painless, firm lump that can remain after inflammation settles.

Place a clean warm compress over the closed eyelid for several minutes, repeating it through the day, and use a fresh clean cloth each time. Do not squeeze, pierce, or try to drain the lump. Keep hands clean, pause eye makeup and contact lenses, and avoid sharing face towels. If crusting occurs, gently clean the lid edges with cooled boiled water or a suitable eyelid cleanser.

Arrange a GP consultation if the swelling does not improve, keeps returning, or interferes with opening the eye. Seek prompt care for spreading redness around the eye, fever, severe pain, reduced vision, pain with eye movement, or substantial swelling. A clinician may need to check whether the problem is a deeper eyelid infection or another cause of a lump.

Is this an inner stye or another eyelid lump? How should I clean the lid? Do I need treatment for infection, and what signs require urgent review?