Stye Disease

DESCRIPTION

A stye, or hordeolum, is an inflammation or infection of the eyelid margin, often involving the hair follicles of the eyelashes.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Redness of the edge of the eyelid with peeling, weeping
Inflammation of the eyelashes
Itching or peeling of the eyelids, chronic redness, eye irritation leading to tenderness and pain

CAUSES

The most common cause of stye is a staphylococcal infection, although other organisms may also be involved.
Seborrhea can predispose to infections of the eyelid.

RISK FACTORS

WHAT THE DOCTOR LOOKS FOR:

The doctor will perform a physical examination to identify the presence of a stye.

TESTS AND PROCEDURES:

N/A

GENERAL MEASURES

Warm compresses to the area of inflammation can help increase blood supply and promote healing.
Clean the eyelids using a solution of tap water and baby shampoo or a commercially prepared hypoallergenic cleanser.
The stye should not be squeezed.
Good personal hygiene should be maintained, with attention to cleansing the eyelids on a daily basis to prevent recurrent infections.
Apply an antibiotic ointment (such as erythromycin) to the margin of the eyelid after proper cleansing (except children under 12 years of age or in cases in which there is a risk of vision problems). The antibiotic helps reduce bacterial growth.
Minor surgery may be required to drain infection.

ACTIVITY

No restrictions

DIET

No special diet

PREVENTION/AVOIDANCE

Eyelid hygiene

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

WHAT TO EXPECT

Styes usually resolve with treatment but tend to recur in some patients.

OTHER FACTORS

N/A

OTHERS

N/A

PREGNANCY

N/A

Holistic healing that treats the person, not just the disease. Experience gentle, lasting wellness with expert constitutional care.