What to expect from a GP consultation for a stye

The GP will ask when the lump or tenderness began, whether it is on the inner or outer eyelid, and whether there is discharge, blurred vision, light sensitivity or spreading redness. They will inspect the eyelid and surrounding skin, and may check the eye itself if symptoms extend beyond the lid.

A stye is often managed with local care. The GP may distinguish it from a blocked gland, skin infection or another eyelid lump. Antibiotic treatment is not suitable for every stye, and a persistent or recurrent lump may need a different review.

Avoid squeezing or piercing the lump. Wash your hands before touching the eyelid, pause eye makeup and contact lenses, and use a clean warm compress for several minutes at a time if comfortable. Bring details of eye conditions, allergies and products used near the eye. Use prescribed treatment exactly as directed and return if it is not improving.

Seek urgent medical help for reduced vision, severe eye pain, pain when moving the eye, marked swelling around the eye, fever, or redness spreading into the cheek. These features can indicate a problem beyond a simple eyelid stye and should not be managed by squeezing it at home.

Ask whether the lump is a stye or another eyelid problem, how to apply a compress, whether to stop contact lenses, what change should trigger review, and when a persistent lump needs specialist assessment.