Sty (Hordeolum) Treatment in Huntington Beach

A stye (sty), also known as a hordeolum, is a common but painful condition where an oil gland at the eyelash base becomes infected, leading to a red, tender bump on the eyelid. At Clarity Eye Group, serving Huntington Beach and Newport Beach, we specialize in diagnosing and treating various eye conditions, including styes. Our team provides safe and reliable treatments that preserve the health and comfort of your eyes.

Stye Symptoms

The primary symptoms of a stye include:

• A red, swollen lump on the eyelid
• Pain and tenderness in the affected area
• Eye discharge or crust forming around the eyelid
• Sensitivity to light
• A sensation of a foreign body in the eye

What Causes a Stye?

Styes are most often caused by a bacterial infection in the oil glands near the eyelashes. The bacteria responsible is usually Staphylococcus aureus. Factors that can increase the risk of developing a stye include:

• Poor eyelid hygiene
• Using old or contaminated makeup
• Certain skin conditions, like dermatitis
• Chronic blepharitis (inflammation of the eyelids)

When Should You See a Doctor for a Stye?

While many styes can be managed at home, you should see an eye care professional if:

• The stye persists for more than a week
• Your vision is affected
• The stye or swelling spreads to other parts of your eyelid or eye
• You experience recurring styes

How Is a Stye Diagnosed?

Diagnosis of a stye typically involves a simple visual examination by one of our experienced eye doctors at Clarity Eye Group. We may ask questions about your symptoms, medical history, and any recent changes in your hygiene or make-up use to better understand the cause of the stye.

Stye Treatment Options

Treatment for styes usually includes:

• Applying warm compresses several times a day to reduce swelling and encourage drainage
• Keeping the eyelid clean and avoiding touching or rubbing the eyes
• Antibiotic ointments or drops if the infection is severe or spreading

In rare cases, if the stye does not resolve with typical treatments, a minor procedure to drain the stye may be necessary.

How to Prevent a Stye

Prevention of styes focuses on maintaining good eyelid hygiene. Recommendations include:

• Regularly washing your hands and face
• Removing makeup before bed and keeping makeup applicators clean
• Avoiding the use of expired cosmetics
• Managing lid inflammation or infections promptly

Do Styes Pose Long-Term Risks?

Styes typically resolve without long-term consequences, especially with appropriate treatment. However, if a stye is improperly managed or if recurrent infections occur, more serious complications may result. Chronic styes can lead to the development of chalazions, which are larger, painless lumps that may require surgical removal. Repeated infections can also cause scarring or deformity of the eyelid, potentially affecting the eyelid’s function and appearance. Therefore, it’s important to treat styes promptly and maintain good eyelid hygiene to prevent recurring issues.

Make an Appointment

If you’re experiencing symptoms of a stye or have concerns about your eye health, don’t hesitate to contact Clarity Eye Group. Our offices in Huntington Beach and Newport Beach are equipped with the latest in eye care technology, and our expert team is ready to assist you. Call us today at 714-842-0651 to request an appointment.