Quick cure for a stye: what helps

A stye is a tender, localised swelling near an eyelash or eyelid gland. It may cause a sore spot, lid swelling, watering, or mild [Red Eye](/symptoms/red-eye/). A stye is different from a deeper or spreading eye infection, so worsening pain, vision change, or swelling beyond the eyelid should not be managed as a simple spot.

Wash your hands, soak a clean cloth in comfortably warm water, wring it out, and rest it over the closed eyelid for several minutes. Re-warm the cloth as needed and repeat during the day. Keep the eyelid clean, avoid eye makeup and contact lenses until it settles, and do not share towels. Never pop the lump or apply leftover eye drops, creams, or household substances. If there is [Eye Discharge](/symptoms/eye-discharge/), clean gently with fresh water and seek advice if it persists.

Arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) if the lump does not improve, keeps returning, or makes it hard to open the eye. Seek urgent assessment for reduced vision, severe eye pain, marked light sensitivity, fever, pain when moving the eye, or swelling spreading across the face. A clinician may check whether the problem is a stye or another eyelid or eye condition.

Is this definitely a stye, or could another eyelid problem look similar? How long should I continue warm compresses? Do I need treatment if it keeps coming back?