How many days does a stye last?

Early symptoms can include a tender spot, local redness, watering, and a small lump. Warmth and soreness may ease first, while a firm area remains at the lid edge for a while. The course varies with the depth of the blockage and how much inflammation surrounds it. A painless lump that remains after tenderness fades may be a blocked oil gland rather than an active stye. A new or worsening symptom changes the picture and should not be dismissed simply because the bump has been present for a few days.

Apply a clean, comfortably warm compress to the closed eyelid for several minutes at a time, repeating during the day. Wash your hands first, keep the cloth clean, and avoid squeezing or rubbing. Do not use eye makeup or contact lenses while the lid is irritated. Track whether pain, redness, and swelling are easing rather than focusing only on the size of the lump. If it is not improving, arrange a GP Consultation.

Seek prompt care if symptoms worsen instead of easing, the redness spreads, the eyelid swells markedly, vision changes, light becomes painful, or eye movement hurts. Medical advice is also needed for fever, feeling unwell, repeated styes, or a lump that persists without improvement. Eye discharge or widespread redness should be assessed in context; see Eye Discharge and Red Eye.

Ask how long your particular lump should be monitored, whether it still looks inflamed, and whether another eyelid condition could explain persistence. Mention any change in vision, discharge, contact lens use, or repeated episodes.