Home Remedies for a Stye
What is a Stye?
A stye, or hordeolum, is an infection of a gland in the eyelid caused by bacteria. It is a red, sometimes painful lump near the edge of the eyelid that is filled with pus. The most common way to get a stye is by touching your eye with unclean hands.
What are the Symptoms of a Stye?
Symptoms of a stye can include redness, swelling, tenderness, and pain of the eyelid. There may also be a yellowish-white spot at the center of the lump. A stye can cause irritation and can make the eye tear more than usual.
What are Home Remedies for a Stye?
Home remedies for a stye can help reduce symptoms and speed up the healing process. Here are some home remedies that may be beneficial:
1. Warm compress
A warm compress can help reduce swelling and pain. To make a warm compress, soak a clean cloth in warm water, wring it out, and then press it gently against the affected eye for 10 to 15 minutes. Do this several times a day.
2. Tea bags
Tea bags can also provide relief from a stye. Place a warm, damp tea bag on the affected eye for 10 to 15 minutes. This can help reduce the swelling and pain. Do this several times a day for best results.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help reduce the swelling and pain of a stye. Mix one teaspoon of turmeric powder with a few drops of water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the affected eye, leave it on for 10 minutes, and then rinse it off with warm water.
4. Aloe vera
Aloe vera has natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling and pain associated with a stye. Apply pure aloe vera gel to the affected eye and leave it on for 10 minutes. Do this several times a day for best results.
5. Castor oil
Castor oil has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the swelling and pain associated with a stye. Dab a small amount of castor oil on a cotton swab and apply it to the affected eye. Leave the oil on the eye for 10 minutes, and then rinse it off with warm water.
When to See a Doctor?
Most styes will resolve on their own with home treatment, but if the stye does not improve or if it gets worse after a few days, then it's a good idea to see a doctor. A doctor can prescribe antibiotics to help clear up the infection.