Introduction
A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a small lump that appears on the edge of the eyelid. It occurs when an eyelash follicle or an oil gland in the eyelid gets infected. Styes are usually not serious but can be uncomfortable, painful, and unsightly. In this article, we will discuss 6 proven methods to get rid of a stye quickly.
Causes of Stye
The leading cause of stye is a bacterial infection that affects the eyelid hair follicles or oil glands. The bacteria responsible for the infection is usually Staphylococcus aureus, which is commonly found on the skin surface or inside the nose. The bacteria can spread through direct or indirect contact, such as touching the affected area or sharing contaminated items.
Prevention of Stye
The most effective way to prevent stye is to maintain good hygiene. Here are some preventive measures you can take:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands
- Avoid sharing eye makeup, towels, and washcloths
- Remove eye makeup before going to bed
How to Get Rid of a Stye Fast
Styes usually go away on their own within a week or two. However, you can quicken the healing process by following these six methods:
- Apply a warm compress
- Use over-the-counter treatments
- Keep the area clean
- Avoid touching the area
- Use tea bags
- Consult with a doctor
Elaborate on the Six Methods
1. Apply a warm compress
Applying a warm compress to the affected eye is one of the most effective ways to reduce the pain and swelling caused by a stye. The heat from the compress helps to increase blood circulation to the area, which speeds up the healing process. To do this, soak a clean cloth in hot water and gently press it to the affected area for about 10 minutes, several times a day.
Depending on the severity of the stye, you may need to repeat this process for a few days to get maximum relief.
Tips:
- Use a clean cloth or towel for each application to avoid spreading the bacteria
- Do not squeeze or pop the stye as this can cause further infection and delay the healing process
2. Use over-the-counter treatments
You can also use over-the-counter treatments to speed up the healing process and relieve pain and swelling. Commonly used treatments include:
- Antibiotic ointments (e.g., erythromycin, bacitracin) to fight the infection
- Pain relievers (e.g., ibuprofen, acetaminophen) to relieve pain and inflammation
Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider before using any medication.
3. Keep the area clean
Keeping the affected area clean can help prevent further infection and accelerate the healing process. You can do this by:
- Washing your hands before and after touching the affected area
- Cleaning the eyelids with a gentle baby shampoo mixed with warm water
- Drying the area with a clean towel after cleaning
4. Avoid touching the area
Touching or rubbing the affected area can cause further infection and delay the healing process. Therefore, it is essential to avoid touching or rubbing the area, especially with dirty hands.
5. Use tea bags
Tea bags contain tannins, which have natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. To use tea bags to treat stye, follow these steps:
- Boil a few tea bags in water for a few minutes
- Remove the tea bags from the water and let them cool for a few minutes
- Place the tea bag over the affected eye for about 10 minutes, several times a day
Repeat this process for a few days to get maximum relief.
6. Consult with a doctor
If the stye does not heal within a week or interferes with your vision, it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics or perform minor surgery to drain the stye.
Conclusion
A stye can be painful, uncomfortable, and unsightly. However, it is straightforward to treat and usually goes away on its own within a week or two. In this article, we have discussed 6 proven methods to get rid of a stye quickly. Remember to maintain good hygiene, avoid touching the affected area, and consult with a doctor if the stye does not heal within a week. By following these methods, you can speed up the healing process and prevent further infection.