Recurring Styes: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Q: Recurring Styes: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Hello： Your recurring stye situation sounds indeed troubling and affects your quality of life. <br>Based on your description, this may not just be a simple stye, but could also involve other eyelid issues. <br>Here are some possible considerations and recommendations： <br>1. <br>

Recurrent styes with significant discharge?

Hello, I have been experiencing recurrent styes for several months now, alternating between my left and right eye, and sometimes developing them in both eyes simultaneously.
Initially, they appeared as small blisters, occasionally causing swelling and pain, but rarely forming pus.
Recently, whenever there is a recurrence, I wake up in the morning with my eyelids stuck together due to discharge! When I first visited an ophthalmologist, the doctor prescribed an ointment for me, but it not only failed to improve my condition but also seemed to slow down the healing process.
The conjunctiva of my eyelids is very red.
Because my condition fluctuates, when I have an appointment, my eyes are not flaring up, and the doctor says they cannot make a diagnosis.
However, when I do have a flare-up, it is difficult to get an appointment… Could there be other issues besides styes? I run every day, drink plenty of water, maintain a normal diet, and have a regular sleep schedule.
I do not wear makeup at all and work from home, so aside from washing my face, I do not need to remove makeup.
Currently, the inner membrane of my eyelids is very red, and there is a layer of something that looks like a scab, which feels hard – but I am afraid to touch it.
Thank you, doctor.

Wang Wang, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/06/03

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello: Your recurring stye situation sounds indeed troubling and affects your quality of life.
Based on your description, this may not just be a simple stye, but could also involve other eyelid issues.
Here are some possible considerations and recommendations:
1.
Chronic blepharitis or chalazion: A stye is caused by an infection of the oil glands at the base of the eyelashes.
If it recurs frequently, it may be chronic blepharitis or a chalazion.
These conditions require long-term care and treatment.
2.
Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids can also lead to redness and increased discharge, which may require ongoing use of antibiotics or anti-inflammatory medications for control.
3.
Treatment recommendations:
- Warm compress: Apply a warm, damp washcloth to the eyelids for about 10-15 minutes daily to help open the oil glands and reduce inflammation.
- Eyelid hygiene: Use a non-irritating eyelid cleanser to clean the eyelids, which can remove excess discharge and bacteria.
- Antibiotic ointment: If topical ointments alone do not improve the condition, oral antibiotics may be necessary, which requires a prescription and supervision from an ophthalmologist.
- Avoid rubbing the eyes: Rubbing the eyes may exacerbate inflammation or lead to new infections.
4.
Medical consultation: Although you face difficulties in scheduling appointments during recurrences, it is advisable to seek a detailed examination from an ophthalmologist, especially if symptoms are severe or persistent.
5.
Environmental factors: Maintaining cleanliness in your home is also important, particularly for items that come into contact with the eyes, such as bed linens and pillowcases, which should be changed and washed regularly to reduce the risk of bacterial infection.
6.
Continuous observation: If there is prolonged redness and hardening of the eyelid mucosa, it is recommended to return to an ophthalmologist for further examination to rule out other potential issues such as eyelid tumors.
I hope these suggestions are helpful.
If symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to see an ophthalmologist promptly for further diagnosis and treatment.
Wishing you a speedy recovery!

Reply Date: 2024/06/03

More Info

Recurring styes, or hordeola, can be quite bothersome and are often a sign of underlying issues with eyelid hygiene or other health factors. Styes are typically caused by bacterial infections, particularly from Staphylococcus bacteria, which can infect the oil glands in the eyelids. When these glands become blocked, it can lead to the formation of a painful lump filled with pus.

Causes of Recurring Styes
1. Bacterial Infection: The most common cause of styes is a bacterial infection. If you have a history of styes, it may indicate that the bacteria are present on your eyelids or skin.

2. Poor Eyelid Hygiene: Not cleaning your eyelids properly can lead to the accumulation of oils, dirt, and bacteria, increasing the risk of infection.

3. Chronic Conditions: Conditions such as blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids) can predispose you to styes. This condition often causes redness, swelling, and crusting of the eyelids.

4. Skin Conditions: Eczema or other skin conditions affecting the eyelids can also contribute to the development of styes.

5. Stress and Hormonal Changes: Stress and hormonal fluctuations can weaken the immune system, making you more susceptible to infections.

6. Underlying Health Issues: Conditions like diabetes can impair your immune response, making it easier for infections to take hold.

Symptoms of Styes
- Redness and Swelling: The area around the stye may become red and swollen.

- Pain and Tenderness: Styes are often painful, especially when touched.

- Discharge: You may notice a discharge or crusting around the eyelid, especially upon waking.

- Sensitivity to Light: Some individuals may experience discomfort in bright light.

Treatment Options
1. Warm Compresses: Applying a warm, moist compress to the affected eye for 10-15 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and promote drainage.

2. Proper Eyelid Hygiene: Keeping your eyelids clean is crucial. You can use diluted baby shampoo or eyelid scrub pads to gently clean the eyelid margins.

3. Topical Antibiotics: If a stye persists, your doctor may prescribe antibiotic ointments or drops to help clear the infection.

4. Oral Antibiotics: In cases of severe or recurrent styes, oral antibiotics may be necessary.

5. Avoid Squeezing: It’s important not to squeeze or pop the stye, as this can worsen the infection or spread bacteria.

6. Consultation with an Eye Specialist: If styes continue to recur, it may be beneficial to see an ophthalmologist for a thorough examination. They can assess for underlying conditions like blepharitis or other skin issues.

When to Seek Further Help
If you notice that your eyelid is persistently red, swollen, or painful, or if you develop vision changes, it’s essential to seek medical attention. Additionally, if the styes do not improve with home treatment or if you experience recurrent episodes, a healthcare professional can provide more targeted interventions.

Conclusion
While styes are common and usually not serious, their recurring nature can indicate underlying issues that may need to be addressed. Maintaining good eyelid hygiene, managing any chronic skin conditions, and consulting with a healthcare provider can help reduce the frequency of stye occurrences. If you have concerns about your symptoms or if they worsen, do not hesitate to seek medical advice for a more comprehensive evaluation and treatment plan.

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