From the Guidelines
The best treatment for a stye (hordeolum) is warm compresses applied to the affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes, 4-6 times daily, as this helps bring the stye to a head and promotes drainage 1. You can make a warm compress by soaking a clean washcloth in warm (not hot) water and gently pressing it against the closed eyelid. Gentle massage of the area after applying the compress may help express the contents once the stye has come to a head. Avoid squeezing or popping the stye yourself. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (200-400mg every 6-8 hours) or acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 6 hours) can help manage discomfort. Keep the area clean and avoid wearing eye makeup or contact lenses until the stye resolves. Most styes heal within 7-10 days with this conservative treatment. If the stye persists beyond two weeks, worsens, affects your vision, or spreads to other areas, see a healthcare provider. They may prescribe antibiotic ointments like erythromycin or bacitracin, or in severe cases, oral antibiotics. Warm compresses work by increasing blood circulation to the area, which helps the body's immune system fight the infection and speeds healing of the blocked oil gland that causes the stye.
Some key points to consider:
- Warm compresses are the primary treatment for styes, and they can be used in combination with other treatments such as eyelid cleansing and artificial tears 1.
- Antibiotic ointments or oral antibiotics may be prescribed in severe cases or if the stye persists beyond two weeks 1.
- It's essential to keep the area clean and avoid wearing eye makeup or contact lenses until the stye resolves 1.
- Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage discomfort, but it's crucial to follow the recommended dosage and consult a healthcare provider if necessary 1.
In terms of specific treatment options, some studies suggest that:
- Topical antibiotics such as erythromycin or bacitracin may be effective in treating styes 1.
- Oral antibiotics such as doxycycline or minocycline may be prescribed in severe cases or if the stye persists beyond two weeks 1.
- Warm compresses and eyelid cleansing can help promote drainage and reduce the risk of complications 1.
Overall, the best treatment for a stye is a combination of warm compresses, good hygiene, and over-the-counter pain relievers, with antibiotic ointments or oral antibiotics prescribed in severe cases or if the stye persists beyond two weeks.
From the Research
Treatment Options for Stye (Hordeolum)
- The best treatment for a stye (hordeolum) is not explicitly mentioned in the provided study 2, as it focuses on bacterial conjunctivitis.
- However, some general treatments for eye infections are discussed, including:
- Topical antibiotics
- Warm compresses
- It is essential to note that the study 2 does not directly address the treatment of styes, but rather bacterial conjunctivitis.
- The study 2 found that warm compresses are one of the interventions evaluated for effectiveness and safety in treating bacterial conjunctivitis, which may also be applicable to styes.
- There is no specific information in the provided study 2 about the best treatment for a stye, and it is recommended to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.