Stye in medical terms

An external hordeolum develops near an eyelash and often appears as a sore spot at the lid edge. An internal hordeolum starts in an oil gland on the inner side of the eyelid and may feel deeper or more uncomfortable during blinking. Both can cause local swelling, redness, tenderness, watering, or discharge.

A stye is usually a local eyelid problem rather than a problem inside the eyeball. A firm, less tender lump that remains after soreness settles may be a blocked oil gland called a chalazion, which is assessed differently.

Apply a clean warm compress to the closed eyelid for several minutes and repeat regularly. Clean your hands before touching the area. Do not share towels, rub the eye, squeeze the lump, or use old eye products. Stop contact lenses and eye makeup until the eyelid feels settled.

If you notice crusting or fluid, clean it gently with fresh water and a clean pad. You can read more about this symptom in Eye Discharge.

Get medical advice if the lump is worsening, the eyelid becomes very swollen, redness spreads onto the face, or symptoms interfere with vision. Urgent assessment is needed for severe pain, fever, major facial swelling, difficulty moving the eye, or strong light sensitivity.

Repeated styes, a persistent firm lump, or symptoms that do not settle deserve an examination. A GP Consultation is a suitable starting point for deciding whether further eye care is needed.

Is this an external or internal hordeolum? Could it instead be a chalazion? Which cleaning routine is appropriate, and what warning signs should prompt an eye assessment?