What to do when you have a stye

Do you notice a lump on or along the edge of your eyelid? It could be a stye or a chalazion. Here's what you need to know about the difference between a stye and a chalazion, and how to relieve the discomfort .

Styes and chalazions are both lumps that appear on or along the edge of your eyelid . Dr Valencia Foo, Associate Consultant in the Department of Cataract & Comprehensive Ophthalmology at Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC), a member of the SingHealth group, shares the differences between the two and home remedies to try to ease the discomfort.

Home remedies for styes and chalazia

Use warm compresses

A common home remedy for styes or chalazions is to use a warm compress. Simply soak a cotton pad in warm water and apply it to your eyelid for 10-15 minutes. Repeat this 3-5 more times a day. This will help soften the hardened oil that is blocking the glandular ducts, allowing it to drain.

Gently massage your eyes

Gently massaging your eyelids for a few minutes each day can help promote drainage. Make sure your fingers are clean before doing this to avoid infection.

Perform eyelid scrubbing

Dilute a few drops of baby shampoo with warm water and use a cotton swab to wipe away any crusting on the eyelids, especially around the base of the eyelashes, while keeping the eyes closed.

Temporarily stop using eye makeup and contact lenses

Do not wear eye makeup or contact lenses to avoid causing further discomfort or irritation. Contact lenses or eye makeup can easily become infected with bacteria from a stye.

How to prevent styes and chalazions from recurring

1. The best way to prevent recurring styes or chalazions is to be observant and maintain good eye hygiene.
2. Do not rub your eyes if you have allergies.
3. Wash hands with soap and water before touching face and eyes
4. Remove dirt and makeup before going to bed
5. Throw away old makeup and replace mascara and eye shadow every 3 months to prevent bacteria growth. Don't share makeup with anyone.
6. Disinfect and clean lenses thoroughly with lens cleaning solution and wash hands before inserting contact lenses.
7. If you have recurring styes or chalazions, clean your eyelids regularly with an eyelid cleanser or mix a little baby shampoo with warm water.

If the above methods do not help with styes or chalazions, see a doctor for the fastest treatment.

Difference between stye and chalazion