What should you know about a stye under your eyelid?

A stye, also called a hordeolum, develops around an eyelash follicle or an oil-producing gland. When it sits on the inner surface of the lid, you may feel a sore spot when blinking even if the bump is hard to see. The lid can feel heavy, gritty, or sensitive to touch, and a small pale point may appear on the inner lid. A stye is different from a deeper, usually less tender blocked-gland lump called a chalazion.

The condition itself does not explain every red or uncomfortable eye. Eye discharge or widespread redness can point to another problem, so notice whether symptoms affect one eye or both and whether vision changes.

Wash your hands before touching the eye. Place a clean, comfortably warm compress over the closed eyelid for several minutes, repeating this a few times through the day. Let the warmth soften crusting and encourage natural drainage; do not press on the lump.

Avoid squeezing, puncturing, or rubbing the area. Pause eye makeup and contact lenses until the eyelid feels well, and use a fresh face towel and clean pillowcase. If discomfort persists, arrange a [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) for an examination and tailored treatment advice.

Seek prompt medical care if pain or swelling spreads around the eye, the eyelid becomes markedly swollen, you develop fever, vision becomes blurred, or moving the eye hurts. Urgent assessment is also appropriate after an eye injury or if light becomes unusually difficult to tolerate.

Arrange a routine review if the lump keeps returning, does not settle, or you are unsure whether it is a stye. New [Red Eye](/symptoms/red-eye/) or persistent [Eye Discharge](/symptoms/eye-discharge/) deserves assessment rather than repeated self-treatment.

Ask whether the lump is on the inner lid or linked to a blocked gland, whether your symptoms suggest infection beyond the eyelid, and which eye products should be avoided while it heals. Mention contact-lens use, repeated styes, skin conditions, and any change in vision.