How to Get Rid of a Stye Fast
A stye is a painful red bump on your eyelid caused by a blocked oil gland. The good news is that most styes heal on their own within 1-2 weeks with simple home care. Here's how to get rid of a stye and feel better faster.
Best Way to Treat a Stye at Home
Warm Compresses
Warm compresses are the most effective treatment for styes. The heat helps the stye drain naturally. According to the Mayo Clinic, apply a warm washcloth to your closed eyelid for 5-10 minutes, 2-3 times daily. The Cleveland Clinic recommends 10-15 minutes at a time, several times per day.
To make a warm compress, soak a clean washcloth in warm water and wring it out. You can also microwave a damp washcloth for 10-20 seconds—just make sure it's not too hot before placing it on your eye. Re-wet the cloth when it cools down.
Keep Your Eyelid Clean
Gently wash your affected eyelid with mild soap and water or baby shampoo. Use a cotton swab or clean washcloth. After applying warm compresses, you can gently massage around the stye with clean fingers to help it drain.
What Not to Do
Never squeeze or pop a stye. This can spread the infection and make things worse. Also avoid wearing eye makeup or contact lenses until the stye heals completely. Wait until you're fully recovered before using a fresh pair of contacts.
How Long Does a Stye Last?
Most styes heal within 7-14 days with proper home care. While you can't get rid of a stye overnight, you may notice improvement within a few days of starting warm compresses. Studies show conservative treatment works in over 70% of cases.
When to See a Doctor
Contact your healthcare provider if your stye doesn't improve after 48 hours, gets worse quickly, affects your vision, or if redness spreads beyond your eyelid to your cheek or face. Spreading redness may indicate cellulitis, a serious infection that needs immediate treatment.
Your doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointment. For stubborn styes, a small in-office procedure can drain the stye and provide quick relief.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pop a stye to make it go away faster?
How long does it take for a stye to go away?
Can I wear makeup or contacts with a stye?
When should I see a doctor for a stye?
References
- Stye (sty) - Diagnosis & treatment. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/sty/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20378022
- How To Get Rid of a Stye. Available from: https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-get-rid-of-a-stye
- Chalazia and Stye Treatment. Available from: https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/chalazion-stye-treatment
- Hordeolum (stye). Available from: https://www.aoa.org/healthy-eyes/eye-and-vision-conditions/hordeolum
Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new skincare treatment, especially if you have underlying health conditions, are pregnant, or are taking medications.