Sometimes, bacteria in contact lenses can cause a localized infection of the eye. This is called a hordeolum, or “stye,” and appears as a red bump. Typically, it develops around the base of an eyelash or in one of the minuscule glands that secrete oil on the skin of the eyelid. These are known as external and internal styes, respectively. Below is more information about this issue, as well as how to prevent it.

What Are the Symptoms?

A stye looks like a tiny boil or pimple on the edge of your eyelid. It can cause inflammation, as well as swollen eyes or eyelids. Styes are painful to the touch and can discharge fluid around the affected area. They may also cause a burning sensation that lasts even if you wash your eyes out. Tenderness and droopy eyelids may also accompany this infection.

How Can You Treat One?

Most styes don’t require treatment because they will drain and recede within several days. However, you can encourage a stye to heal faster by putting a cloth soaked in warm water over it. You can also wash the eyelid with mild soap and water to remove excess oil.

Avoid aggravating the stye whenever possible. Don’t wear makeup or contact lenses, and don’t squeeze or irritate the bump. If the stye still causes symptoms after a few days, an ophthalmologist may prescribe antibiotics.

What Are Preventative Methods?

One of the best ways to preserve your eye health is to wash your hands. Clean them with soap and water, and use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer several times a day to remove any germs.

Avoid touching your face or eyes whenever possible, and clean your hands thoroughly before applying contact lenses. Also, check the expiration date of any makeup before putting it on. Thoroughly remove makeup at the end of the day to prevent bacteria from entering your eye and causing an infection.

Do you have a stye that won’t go away? Contact the professionals at Medical Eye Center in Columbia, MD. With six eye health experts on staff, they will handle your eye problems with the utmost care and precision. They can also provide regular eye exams to prescribe contact lenses or glasses to improve your vision. Schedule an appointment with them by calling (410) 997-9900. Visit them online for more information about their services.