From the Research
To manage a persistent stye, apply warm compresses to the affected eye for 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times daily to help bring the stye to a head and promote drainage. Although the study by 1 focused on acute internal hordeolum and did not find any evidence for or against the effectiveness of nonsurgical interventions, the recommended treatment approach is based on general medical knowledge and guidelines for external hordeolum (stye) management.
Key Management Strategies
- Gently clean your eyelids with diluted baby shampoo or eyelid cleansers like OCuSOFT or SteriLid once or twice daily to maintain proper eyelid hygiene.
- Avoid wearing eye makeup and contact lenses until the stye resolves to prevent further irritation and potential infection spread.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen (200-400mg every 6-8 hours) or acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 6 hours) can help manage discomfort associated with the stye.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If the stye persists beyond 1-2 weeks, shows signs of spreading infection (increasing redness, pain, swelling), or affects your vision, consult a healthcare provider. They may prescribe antibiotic ointments like erythromycin or bacitracin, or oral antibiotics such as doxycycline (100mg twice daily for 7-10 days) for more severe infections. It is crucial to never attempt to pop or squeeze a stye as this can spread infection. Proper management and prevention of recurrence rely on maintaining good eyelid hygiene and seeking medical attention when necessary.