Hordeolums, or sties as they are more commonly known, are red masses at the edge of the eyelid, according to AllAboutVision.com. Sties may form when the base of an eyelash is infected. The infection essentially causes the oil glands in the vicinity of the eyelash base to become blocked, causing the red mass to form, explains FamilyDoctor.org. Sties are not generally detrimental to sight, however they can be painful and are generally unpleasant.
Bad Hygiene
Sties can be caused by bad hygiene practices, explains FamilyDoctor.org. Some examples of poor hygienic practices include neglecting to properly wash the face, or using infected facial products around the eyes. Using contact lenses that have not been properly cleaned and disinfected can also cause sties to form.
Blepharitis
Blepharitis can cause a sty, notes FamilyDoctor.org. Blepharitis occurs when the base of the eyelashes at the edge of the eyelid become infected by skin bacteria, notes MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. Blepharitis can also occur as a result of a lice infestation.
Changes in Hormones
Changes in hormones may also cause sties, notes FamilyDoctor.org. Hormonal imbalances can affect the oil glands around the eyelid, creating conditions conducive to the development of sties, such as excessive oil production.
Dehydrated Skin
Skin that is not properly or sufficiently moisturized can cause a sty, notes FamilyDoctor.org.
Rosacea
Rosacea can also cause sties, notes FamilyDoctor.org. Rosacea is a long-term skin condition that manifests as a skin inflammation, explains MayoClinic.com. Once the swelling spreads to the eyes, it is known as ocular rosacea.
Staphylococcal Bacteria
Staphylococcal bacteria may contribute to the development of a sty, notes MayoClinic.com. Staphylococcal bacteria can be found on the nose. The bacteria can transfer to the eyes via the hands, after touching the infected section of the nose, explains AllAboutVision.com.
Stress
Extreme levels of stress can also affect the immune system and raise the risk of a sty forming, according to FamilyDoctor.org.
