In most cases, a stye will resolve on its own without any help from you or a medical professional. However, they can be stubborn and linger for several days, or even months. At-home treatment is usually effective, but if you’re having trouble getting rid of this growth for good, then you came to the right place. Below, I’ll go over some different techniques you can try, how you can reduce symptoms associated with this condition, such as dry eyes and eye pain and headache, and how you can prevent stye growth in the future.
Getting rid of these bumps is simple enough if you can avoid rubbing your eye or scratching it. Never try to pop the growth or use blemish removing tools to apply pressure. Instead, apply a warm wet washcloth to the affected area four to six times a day. The growth should disappear within three to five days. If an infection occurs, seek medical attention.
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The Best Treatment Options
Most physicians will recommend applying a warm washcloth to the eye several times a day, however, in some cases, over the counter steroid creams and antibiotic ointment, such as bacitracin, can help to speed up the healing process. For multiple growths, an antibiotic may be recommended.
If, after several days you’ve had no luck with over the counter treatment, then you may need to make an appointment with your doctor to have it drained. This procedure is usually done under a local anesthesia and is relatively painless.
Children with one or more growths may need a round of antibiotics to clear up the infection and prevent a secondary infection from occurring, which can happen if the growth is frequently touched, rubbed, or scratched.
If you’re dealing with other eye-related issues, such as eye allergies, or you don’t know how to relieve watery eyes, a common symptom, then medical attention is necessary. Red eyes is another symptom and one that many people find distressing since eye redness can linger for days. With proper over the counter medications, such as artificial tears, and hot compress use four to six times a day, you should be able to easily manage this condition on your own.
Complications
Complications are rare, but they can happen. An infection can spread to other parts of the eyelid or to other eyelash follicles, which can lead to multiple growths. The most common complication is called a chalazion, which is a type of scarring of the glands that can result in the formation of cysts. These chalazions can be big enough to negatively impact your sight or they can even cause deformities in the cornea. Additionally, with frequent scratching, applying pressure to the growth, or rubbing it, you can also damage the tender skin around the eyes. Fortunately, how to soothe irritated skin around the eyes and eyelids is rather simple. To protect the skin, apply a thin layer of moisturizer to keep the skin soft and supple. Adding a light layer of coconut oil around the affected area can also provide the type of hydration needed to prevent the skin from becoming irritated and dry due to all the friction caused by rubbing the growth.
Prevention
If you’re desperate to prevent future growths, there are some things you can do.
- Practice good hygiene
- Wash hands prior to touching your eyes
- Keep makeup brushes and tools clean
- Throw out eye makeup after a period of three months
- Avoid touching your eyes
- Never share eye makeup
When to See a Doctor
If the growth has been present for more than one week and is inflamed, very tender, and accompanied by drainage, then it’s time to see your doctor.
Related Questions
Is Discharge a Common Symptom?
No. Typically, you’ll be dealing with a small painful bump, however, eye redness can also be present. To learn more about eye discharge and what it can mean, click here to view my guide on can a cold cause eye discharge.
Can These Growths Develop with Blepharitis?
Yes, blepharitis is a type of bacterial infection of the eyelids. Stye growth is very common and can further aggravate symptoms, especially if you don’t know how to properly treat it. My guide on how to get rid of blepharitis for good will walk you through what you can do to minimize symptoms.
Discharge and Bumps on Eyelids in Children
So, what causes eye discharge in babies? If your child is dealing with the viral form of pink eye, then these growths can pop up if they fail to practice proper hygiene. The eyelids must remain clean and free of discharge and crust to prevent the condition from worsening and spreading.
Can Anti-Aging Products Can Bumps on Eyelid?
Yes, some can. If you’re using anti-aging products on and around your eyes, then the chances of bumps develop are pretty strong. These ointments, serums, and creams contain powerful ingredients, such as retinal, which are designed to reverse the signs of aging. Since the eyelids are very delicate, they can easily become irritated and may develop a form of contact dermatitis. Additionally, some of these creams are very thick and can clog the pores, which can lead to the development of these bumps. For more information, please read my guide on how to get rid of wrinkles under your eyes when you smile, where you’ll find information on the safest ways to combat the signs of aging.
Final Thoughts
In most cases, these growths are harmless and will often drain on their own in a matter of four or five days. There are some cases that will require medical treatment, especially in the event of a secondary infection. Unfortunately, these growths often recur. However, there are some things you can do to prevent dealing with styes in the future, this includes practicing proper hygiene, washing makeup brushes and tools, avoiding the use of anti-aging products on and around the eyelids, and keeping the skin moisturized.
