Stye

Alternate Names : Hordeolum, Sty

What are the treatments for the infection?

Styes usually respond well to hot compresses. If the compresses do not give relief within 24 hours, the healthcare provider should be consulted. Topical antibiotics, such as bacitracin or tobramycin, may be needed.

Sometimes the infection spreads to the eyelid or the lymph nodes in front of the ear. The healthcare provider may then prescribe oral antibiotics, such as dicloxacillin, cephalexin, erythromycin, or tetracycline.

Rarely, when a large stye does not respond to treatment, the healthcare provider may drain the infection through a small incision.

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Topical antibiotics may cause allergic reactions. The antibiotics used to treat a stye can cause a rash, light sensitivity, stomach upset, or allergic reactions. Draining the stye through an incision may cause bleeding, infection, or allergic reaction to anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the infection?

A stye should clear up in two to three days. No further treatment is required.

How is the infection monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.