MedlinePlus reports that most bumps on the eyelids are styes. These swollen, red lumps are accompanied by irritation, sensitivity to light and soreness around the area. Though styes typically improve on their own, complications arise when infection occurs and spreads to other hair follicles or tissues of the sensitive eye area. Consult a doctor if the sty becomes large or if you have vision problems, crusting or excessive redness around the eye. Finding the cause of recurring styes is significant to treatment.
Bacteria
Much like a pimple, styes appear when bacteria seeps into the oil gland. Unlike acne, however, they only appear in one place—on the edge of the eyelids where the lashes grow. Never squeeze a sty or apply acne treatments to the sensitive eye area. Instead, MedlinePlus recommends applying a warm compress for 10 minutes several times daily.
Staphylococcus/Poor Hygiene
Though other types of bacteria can cause styes, Staphylococcus results from poor hygiene, which promotes the growth of styes and is sometimes the cause of recurring styes. MayoClinic.com states that leaving eye makeup on overnight, using old cosmetics, and failing to disinfect contact lenses or wash your hands before handling them exposes you to styes. Once a sty develops, avoid wearing contact lenses to prevent recontamination. Throwing away old lenses and keeping the eye clean and free of makeup can also help.
Blepharitis
Various conditions, both malignant and benign, can afflict the eyelid. Most of these disorders, however, do not harm vision, says Susan R. Carter, M.D., of the University of California, San Francisco, School of Medicine, in an article published by the American Academy of Family Physicians. Blepharitis is one of the most common eye conditions, which results from malfunctioning oil glands and causes inflammation, itching and irritation of the eyelid. Individuals with blepharitis are more likely to get styes, states MedlinePlus. Antibiotics and warm compresses are often prescribed.
