Styes: Treatment, Risks, and Long-Term Effects

The doctor said that the stye will not get better?

I developed a stye on October 7th and went to see a doctor the next day.
The doctor prescribed oral medication and eye drops.
I didn't finish the oral medication because I thought the stye was noticeably less swollen, so I stopped taking the medication and using the eye drops.
A few days later, the stye became more prominent again.
I consulted another doctor who said that I must apply warm compresses before using the eye drops and that I shouldn't wear contact lenses while using them, otherwise, they won't be effective (the previous doctor didn't mention this).
He explained that styes go through three stages, and the final stage is when the stye will never heal, resulting in a piece of flesh growing over it, leaving a permanent red bump that won't be painful.
The doctor also mentioned that the location of my stye is too close to the tear glands for surgery.
Today, I went for another check-up (13 days after the last visit), and the doctor said that I have developed a piece of flesh on my eye, indicating that it won't heal.
I would like to know if warm compresses can make the stye less noticeable, and what the implications would be if surgery were to be performed close to the tear glands.
Thank you!

Lin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/23

Dr. Wang Zhishun reply Ophthalmology

Hello, using a warm towel for compress can be helpful.
If the location is too close to the lacrimal glands, surgery may affect the tear film.

Reply Date: 2015/11/23

More Info

Styes, also known as hordeola, are localized infections of the eyelid that can cause discomfort, swelling, and redness. They are typically caused by bacteria, often Staphylococcus species, which infect the oil glands or hair follicles in the eyelid. Understanding the treatment options, risks, and potential long-term effects of styes is crucial for effective management and prevention of recurrence.

Treatment Options
The initial treatment for a stye usually involves conservative measures. Warm compresses are highly recommended as they can help reduce swelling and promote drainage of the stye. Applying a warm, moist cloth to the affected area for 10-15 minutes several times a day can be beneficial. This method helps to soften the contents of the stye, allowing it to drain naturally.

In addition to warm compresses, your doctor may prescribe topical antibiotics in the form of eye drops or ointments to combat the bacterial infection. Oral antibiotics may also be prescribed if the infection is severe or if there are signs of systemic involvement. It is essential to complete the entire course of antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to ensure the infection is fully resolved.

Risks and Long-Term Effects
If a stye is not treated properly, it can lead to complications such as the development of a chalazion, which is a blocked oil gland that can become chronic. A chalazion may not be painful but can cause cosmetic concerns due to its persistent appearance. In some cases, if a stye or chalazion does not resolve with conservative treatment, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Surgery typically involves a minor procedure to drain the contents of the stye or chalazion. However, surgery near the tear ducts or eyelid margin carries risks, including scarring, recurrence of the stye, or damage to surrounding structures. Therefore, it is crucial to weigh the benefits and risks of surgical intervention, especially if the stye is located close to the tear glands.

Importance of Compliance with Treatment
It is important to adhere to the prescribed treatment regimen. Discontinuing oral medications or eye drops prematurely can lead to a recurrence of the stye. If you notice that the stye is not improving or is worsening, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

Conclusion
In summary, styes can be effectively managed with warm compresses and appropriate medications. While most styes resolve without complications, it is essential to monitor the condition and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen. Surgical options are available but should be considered carefully due to potential risks. Maintaining good eyelid hygiene and avoiding touching or rubbing the eyes can help prevent future occurrences. If you have concerns about the appearance of your eyelid or the effectiveness of your treatment, discussing these with your healthcare provider can provide clarity and guidance on the best course of action.

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