Treatment for a stye - House Call: expert advice on health and fitness - Brief Article

Q Every now and then a little bump appears on my eyelid that's unattractive and painful, but it doesn't cause any vision problems. It's just annoying and a bit unsightly. What is it and how can I treat it? L.G., Walls, Miss.

A You have described what appears to be a stye, an infection, usually a staphylococcal infection, of one or more of the glands at the edge of the eyelid or under it. It usually begins with redness, tenderness and pain at the edge of the eyelid. The eye may water, become sensitive to bright light and feel as though something is in it. Often a tiny, yellowish spot develops at the center of the swollen area. Doctors say the best treatment is to apply hot compresses for 10 minutes several times a day. The warmth helps the stye come to a head, rupture and drain. Antibiotics can also be used.