What should you know about popping a stye?

A stye is a painful, inflamed lump at or near the eyelid margin. It may be red, swollen and tender, and a small amount of eye discharge can occur. The lump often improves as the blocked gland settles, but a persistent, firm or painless lump may represent a different eyelid problem.

Popping it can damage the skin, force infected material into surrounding tissue and make irritation worse. Touching the eye also transfers germs from the hands.

Use a clean warm compress on the closed eyelid for several minutes at a time, repeating it through the day. Wash hands before and after care, keep the eyelid gently clean and do not share towels. Avoid rubbing the eye, contact lenses and eye makeup until symptoms have cleared.

If the stye drains naturally, do not squeeze it further. Wipe away fluid with clean material and wash your hands. A healthcare professional can examine a lump that does not settle and discuss suitable treatment.

Book a GP Consultation if the stye is persistent, recurrent, unusually large or interfering with daily activities. Get urgent help for spreading redness or swelling, fever, severe pain, pain with eye movement, marked light sensitivity or any blurred or reduced vision.

Ask how to distinguish a stye from another eyelid lump, how long to continue compresses, whether medication is appropriate and how to prevent repeated episodes.