Stye

Stye services offered in Holmdel, NJ

A stye is a red, painful bump that forms along the edge of the eyelid when an oil gland or hair follicle becomes blocked and infected. Often resembling a pimple, styes can cause swelling, tenderness, tearing, and irritation. While most styes resolve on their own with warm compresses and time, some may require medical treatment if they persist, enlarge, or affect vision. At Holmdel Eye Center in Holmdel, New Jersey, Ahmed Abdelhady, MD offers prompt evaluation and personalized care to relieve discomfort and prevent recurrence. If needed, Dr. Abdelhady can provide in-office procedures to safely drain larger styes or prescribe medication to control infection. If you’re experiencing an eyelid lump or swelling, we’re here to help you find quick, effective relief. Call Holmdel Eye Center or fill out the online booking form today.

Stye Q & A

What is a stye?

A stye is a red, painful bump that forms near the edge of your eyelid. It usually looks like a pimple and can cause swelling, tenderness, and irritation. Styes may form on the outside or inside of the eyelid.

You might notice the affected eyelid becoming red and swollen. It may feel sore when you blink or touch it, and the eye might water more than usual or feel scratchy. In some cases, the stye may develop a yellow spot and eventually release some pus.

What causes a stye?

Styes happen when something blocks the oil glands in your eyelid. Bacteria then enter the eyelid’s oil glands or hair follicles, creating the infected lump.

Poor eyelid hygiene, touching your eyes with dirty hands, or using old makeup can increase your risk. People with conditions like blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelid) are also more likely to get styes.

How is a stye treated?

Most styes go away on their own within a week or so. To help the healing process, Dr. Abdelhady recommends applying warm compresses to the affected eyelid. Keep the compress there for 10-15 minutes several times a day.

The treatment helps to reduce swelling and encourage drainage. Avoid squeezing the stye, as this can worsen the infection.

When should I see an eye doctor for a stye?

If the stye doesn’t improve after a few days, gets larger, or affects your vision, it’s time to visit Holmdel Eye Center.

Dr. Abdelhady can evaluate the stye and determine if you need further treatment. In some cases, you might require a prescription antibiotic or a minor procedure to drain the stye safely.

Are styes preventable?

You can lower your chances of getting a stye by keeping your eyelids clean. Wash your hands properly before touching your eyes, remove makeup before bed, and avoid sharing eye products.

If you’ve had styes before, daily eyelid scrubs with warm water and using a gentle cleanser can help keep your eyelid glands healthy.

Are styes contagious?

Styes themselves aren’t contagious, but the bacteria that cause them can spread. That’s why it’s important not to share towels, eye makeup, or contact lenses with others. Keeping good eye hygiene is the best way to protect yourself.

If you have a bothersome stye, call Holmdel Eye Center to arrange an appointment or request one online today.