A sty is an inflamed oil gland on the edge of the eyelid, but styes can sometimes form on the inner part of the eyelid. They appear as small, red bumps and are usually filled with pus. Although styes are not typically dangerous, they are uncomfortable and even painful for many people. Styes eventually go away on their own without treatment, but there are many treatments available for those wishing to speed the healing process.
Hot Compress
Hot compresses encourage styes to drain, quickening the healing process. These compresses should be applied approximately three or four times a day, for a period of 10 to 15 minutes. Many people choose to use a wet washcloth for this purpose, but it is best if the compress stays warm for the entire 10 to 15 minute treatment. The washcloth can be reheated during the process, or the washcloth can be wrapped around a hot potato to retain heat. Other options for a hot compress include hot tea bags or a bag filled with just-cooked oatmeal.
Self-Care
Individuals with styes should not only avoid the temptation to squeeze the sty, but should also try to keep their hands away from it completely to prevent the infection from spreading, suggests Drugs.com. They should also keep their hands and face clean and avoid wearing eye makeup until the sty is gone.
Antibiotics
Topical antibiotic ointments or creams also treat eye styes. These can be applied directly to the sty, typically several times a day. The sty infection can occasionally persist or spread beyond the eyelid. When this occurs, doctors may prescribe oral antibiotics, as well.
Corticosteroid Eye Drops
Doctors sometimes prescribe corticosteroid drops to control inflammation, especially for styes that are persistent or severe, according to the Aetna Intelihealth website. People should discuss possible side effects and risks of these drops with a doctor before using them.
Surgery
Although most styes will go away with the help of warm compresses or antibiotics, sometimes a more invasive medical procedure is necessary. Pus-filled styes that do not rupture on their own may need to be lanced and drained in a surgical procedure done by an ophthalmologist, explains the Mayo Clinic website.
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