Hordeolum (stye)

The hordeolum, also known as a “stye”, is an infection of an oil gland at the edge of the eyelid. It usually involves only one eye and is most common in children or young adults.

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Hordeola are caused by a bacterial infection of the oil gland at the edge of the eyelid.

Hordeola are caused by a bacterial infection of the oil gland at the edge of the eyelid. Hordeola is not caused by a virus, allergy or foreign body.

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Most hordeola start with an oil gland that has become clogged.

The term hordeolum is used for two different types of eyelid infections. In both cases, an oil gland at the edge of your eyelid becomes clogged and infected. The infection causes swelling that can cause pain and redness, but it doesn't usually require treatment unless the swelling lasts for more than two weeks.

When a hordeolum occurs:

• An oil gland on your eyelid swells up (swelling is also known as "stye").
• A small bump appears under your upper or lower eyelid. It may be red or pinkish in color and tender to touch — like when you get punched in the eye!
• You may even see pus coming out from under your lid if it's really infected.

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Hordeola may increase in numbers and frequency during times of stress or illness.

Hordeola is a common infection that affects the eyelid. It can be painful, but is usually not serious.

Hordeolum affects people of all ages, but most often occurs in adults aged 20 to 40 years old. It may increase in frequency and number during times ofstress or illness.

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Signs and Symptoms

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Hordeolum (stye) is a common, red, painful pimple on your eyelid that may drain fluid. Other signs and symptoms include:

• Swollen eye
• Painful eye
• Red eye
• Blurred vision or decreased vision in the affected eye(s)
• Tenderness around the eye

Treatment

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Treatment for hordeolum includes topical antibiotic drops or ointment applied to the eye several times a day to reduce swelling and pain. The infection usually clears up within 7 days without causing any permanent damage. Your optometrist may prescribe oral antibiotics if you have a severe case of hordeolum, but this is rarely necessary.

Other treatments for hordeolum include warm compresses and keeping your eyes closed when not in use to reduce irritation, which can help prevent further breakdown of the eyelid tissue.

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Warm compresses may be helpful in breaking up the collection of pus in the stye

Warm compresses may be helpful in breaking up the collection of pus in the stye. Never use hot compresses, as they will only cause more pain and swelling. To apply the compress, soak a clean washcloth or towel in warm water and wring it out so that it's not dripping wet. Place this on top of your eye for about15 minutes. After removing with a clean cloth, repeat this process several times per day until your stye is gone.

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While the condition is usually not serious, it can be painful and cause permanent scarring if not treated. Hordeolum usually heals without complications within two to three weeks.

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