What should you know about large stye?

A stye, also called a hordeolum, is a painful inflamed lump near the edge of the eyelid. It can make the lid swollen, red and sensitive, and may develop a small yellow point. A large stye can feel as though something is in the eye, but it usually affects the eyelid rather than the eyeball itself. [Red Eye](/symptoms/red-eye/) or [Eye Discharge](/symptoms/eye-discharge/) may occur, although marked changes in vision are not typical.

Avoid squeezing or piercing the lump. Pressure can irritate the eyelid and spread inflammation. Sharing towels, eye make-up or cosmetics can transfer germs, so use clean personal items while the eye is recovering.

Apply a clean, comfortably warm compress to the closed eyelid for several minutes, repeating it through the day. Wash your hands first, use a fresh clean cloth, and stop if heat causes pain. Gentle eyelid hygiene can remove crusting. Do not wear contact lenses or eye make-up until the eye feels better and the surface is no longer irritated.

Most styes can be monitored with supportive care, but arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) if the lump is large, keeps returning, or is not improving. A clinician can check whether another eyelid problem is present and whether treatment is needed.

Seek urgent medical help if vision becomes blurred or reduced, eye movement is painful, swelling spreads around the eye, the eyelid closes completely, or you feel very unwell. Prompt assessment is also sensible for marked light sensitivity, severe eye pain, or redness involving the eye rather than only the lid.

Ask whether the lump is a stye or another eyelid condition, how to continue warm compresses, when you can use contact lenses or make-up again, and which changes mean the infection may be spreading.