A sty in the eye can be both painful and unsightly. The Mayo Clinic describes a sty as a red, painful bump that develops at the edge of the eyelid. It resembles a pimple and is often filled with pus. Sometimes the sty develops on the outside of the eyelid, while other times it appears on the inside. Treatment typically consists of methods to relieve pain, such as covering the eye with a warm wash cloth or avoiding touching the area. Antibiotics or surgery may be required for more persistent or severe cases.
Bacteria
A sty is often the result of bacteria that has entered the eye and surrounding area. The Mayo Clinic explains that the bacterium Staphylococcus is the most common strain responsible for these bumps. Poor hygiene, such as touching the eyes without washing the hands, can introduce bacteria to the eye. FamilyDoctor.org points out that failing to remove makeup before bed and not disinfecting contact lenses regularly can lead to more frequent sties.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis is a condition in which the eyelid becomes inflamed frequently. When the eyelid is inflamed, a sty is likely to form, the Mayo Clinic says. Medical treatment of blepharitis can reduce the likelihood of sties developing.
Other Causes
Several factors can make a person more susceptible to sties, such as stress, hormone changes and dry skin, FamilyDoctor.org says. These factors can make oil production heavier, leading to increased risk that the root of the eyelash will become infected. Like acne, a sty can develop under such strenuous conditions. Acne rosacea–a skin disorder that causes redness and pimples on the forehead, nose, chin and cheekbones–is another health condition that can increase the chances of developing a sty.
About this Author
Sarah Irene has written stacks of research articles dating back to 2000, has consulted in a number of settings, and is an able resource for a vast range of topics. She has been a psychology instructor since 2006 and has had her work published by ParentDish. She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology.
