Stye inside the corner of the eye: what to know

An inside-corner lump may be on the inner surface of the upper or lower eyelid, close to the eye rather than on the skin. It can feel hidden, rub during blinking, and cause a sensation of grit. The corner may look red and tears may overflow. A lump right beside the nose-side tear opening can resemble a stye but may need a different assessment.

Do not diagnose the cause from redness alone. Eye discharge, sticky lashes, or irritation can occur with infection, allergy, or surface inflammation as well as with a stye.

Use a clean warm compress on the closed eye for about ten minutes, repeating it during the day. Keep the pressure light, especially near the inner corner. Clean any crusting with clean water and a fresh pad, wiping away from the eye rather than rubbing across it.

Do not squeeze, pierce, or try to drain the lump. Avoid contact lenses, eye makeup, and unadvised eye drops while the area is sore. Wash hands before and after care, and do not share towels or cosmetics.

Get urgent help if the eye becomes very painful, vision changes, light sensitivity is strong, fever appears, swelling spreads across the face, or eye movement is painful. Rapidly increasing swelling or difficulty opening the eye also needs prompt attention.

A GP consultation is appropriate when the swelling does not settle, keeps returning, or produces ongoing discharge. The clinician can examine the eyelid and nearby tear drainage structures.

Ask whether the lump is within the eyelid or near the tear opening, how to continue warm compresses, and whether medicine is indicated. Share details about watering, discharge, lens use, cosmetic products, recurrence, and sight changes.