What does a stye look like?

A stye can resemble a small spot, pimple or sore lump at the lash line. The surrounding eyelid may be puffy and warm, and blinking can hurt. An inner stye may be more visible when the lid is gently turned by a clinician; at home it may feel like pressure or grit. The eye can water, and a small amount of discharge may collect near the lashes. The eyeball itself is not usually the centre of the lump.

A painless firm lump, widespread redness, marked discharge or a rash around the eye can have other causes. Appearance alone cannot confirm the diagnosis.

Wash your hands, then place a clean comfortably warm cloth over the closed eyelid for several minutes. Repeat during the day and keep the cloth warm without making it hot. Do not pop or pierce the spot. Avoid rubbing, mascara, eyeliner and contact lenses while the eye is sore. If crust forms, soften it with clean water and wipe gently using a fresh pad.

Do not use another person’s eye drops or share towels and cosmetics. If symptoms are not easing, a clinician can inspect the lid and recommend suitable treatment.

Get prompt medical help if pain is severe, swelling spreads around the eye, you develop fever, the eye is hard to move or open, light hurts, or vision changes. Arrange an assessment for a lump that persists, enlarges or returns. Persistent red eye or heavy discharge also needs review. A GP Consultation is a suitable starting point for checking the eyelid and deciding whether further eye care is needed.

Ask whether the appearance fits a stye or another eyelid lump, whether you should continue warm compresses, and when to restart makeup or contact lenses. Mention whether the spot is painful, whether it is at the lash edge or inside the lid, and whether sight, light comfort or eye movement has changed.