What should you know about a stye inside the eyelid?

An inner stye develops on the inside surface of an eyelid, so the swelling may be easier to feel than to see. The lid can look puffy or red, and blinking may cause soreness, pressure or a scratchy sensation. A small spot of discharge can occur. The eye itself may water, while vision generally remains clear. A firm lump that remains after tenderness settles may be a blocked gland rather than an active infection.

Do not squeeze, pierce or scrape the area. Touching the eye can spread irritation and may injure the delicate inner lid.

Wash your hands before and after touching the eyelid. Hold a clean, comfortably warm cloth against the closed eye for several minutes, repeating this through the day; re-warm the cloth as it cools. Afterward, gentle eyelid massage toward the lash line may help loosen material, but stop if it hurts. Keep towels, pillowcases and eye cosmetics separate from others, and avoid contact lenses and eye makeup until the eye feels settled.

If crust or discharge collects, wipe it away with clean water and a fresh pad for each eye. A clinician can check whether prescription treatment or drainage is appropriate when home care is not enough.

Arrange prompt medical assessment if pain is severe, swelling spreads around the eye, the eye becomes difficult to open, vision changes, light becomes painful, or you feel unwell. Seek urgent help after an eye injury or chemical exposure. An assessment is also sensible when the lump does not improve, keeps returning, or the eye has marked discharge or redness. A GP Consultation can help decide whether the problem is an inner stye or another eyelid or eye condition.

Ask: Could this be an inner stye or a blocked gland? Is the firm area likely to need treatment? Should I avoid contact lenses for longer? What changes would mean I need an eye specialist? Mention how long the swelling has been present, whether it is recurring, and any discharge, light sensitivity or change in vision.