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A stye is a small, painful lump on the inside or outside of the eyelid. It is often caused by a blocked, infected gland and may contain pus. Styes usually clear within a few weeks with good eyelid care.
What are the symptoms of a stye?
- A lump on the eyelid, usually near the eyelashes
- Redness and swelling around the eyelid
- Pain when touched
- Eye irritation or watering
- A feeling that something is stuck in your eye
What causes a stye?
Styes are caused by a bacterial infection of the glands in and around the eyelid. This often comes from bacteria on the hands, or from glands blocked by oil or sweat. Risk factors include poor hand hygiene when handling contact lenses, sleeping in makeup and a weakened immune system.
How do I treat a stye at home?
- Hold a clean, warm (not hot) washcloth against your closed eyelid for 2 to 5 minutes.
- You can repeat this up to 20 times a day.
- Gently massage the eyelid.
- Wipe away any discharge with a clean, warm washcloth.
What should I avoid?
- Do not touch, rub or squeeze the stye, as this can spread the infection.
- Do not leave makeup on overnight.
- Wash your hands before touching your eyes or handling contact lenses.
Do I need antibiotics?
Usually not. A doctor may use ointments or oral antibiotics if the skin becomes red, warm and swollen. If a stye does not resolve, a doctor may drain it with a needle.
How long does a stye last?
Styes usually clear within a few weeks, but the lump can take up to 6 months to disappear completely.
What is the difference between a stye and a chalazion?
A stye that does not go away can become a chalazion, which is a painless eyelid lump. It is treated in a similar way but may take longer to clear, and sometimes surgery is needed.
When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if:
- The stye blocks your vision, or the lump becomes large or painful
- A blister forms on your eyelid
- Your whole eyelid or eye is red
- Your eye is sensitive to light or makes more tears than usual
- A new stye returns soon after treatment
- The lump gets worse, or does not improve within 1 to 2 weeks of self-care
When is it urgent?
See a doctor straight away if the skin of your eyelid or around your eye is red, swollen or painful, as this can be a sign of spreading infection. Also go straight away if you have a fever or feel generally unwell, or if treatment is not working. Call triple zero (000) in an emergency.
Source: Healthdirect: Stye.
General education does not replace individual medical advice. Updated November 2026.
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