Stye on the upper lash line

The upper lash line can become red, swollen and sore when a follicle or oil gland is blocked and inflamed. You may notice a small bump, tenderness with blinking, watering, crusting or a gritty feeling. Swelling of the upper lid can make the eye feel heavy or briefly obscure part of the view. A clinician should check a lump that is firm, not tender, repeatedly returns or does not improve, because not every eyelid lump is a stye.

Hold a clean warm compress against the closed upper lid for several minutes and repeat through the day. Clean your hands first, and wipe away crust gently rather than rubbing the lashes. Do not squeeze, pierce or pull out the affected lash. Avoid cosmetics and contact lenses until the lid is comfortable; do not use unprescribed eye medicine. If yellow or sticky material collects around the eye, read Eye Discharge.

Seek prompt assessment for spreading redness, marked swelling, pain when moving the eye, light sensitivity, fever, feeling unwell or any change in vision. Urgent help is needed for sudden vision loss, severe eye pain or an eye injury. Arrange a GP Consultation if the upper-lid bump remains, returns repeatedly, or interferes with daily activities. The Red Eye guide covers other forms of eye redness and related warning signs.

Is the lump located in the lash margin or deeper in the lid? How often should I use warmth? Could my contact lenses or eye products be irritating the area? What should I do if the upper lid becomes more swollen?