Styes in the eyes are caused by bacterial infections, most commonly by Staphylococcus bacteria. They occur when the oil glands or hair follicles at the base of the eyelashes become clogged and infected. This leads to the formation of a red, painful lump or bump on the eyelid (either outside or inside) that can be tender, swollen, and sometimes filled with pus. Factors that increase the risk of styes include poor eye hygiene, touching or rubbing the eyes with unclean hands, using old or contaminated makeup, hormonal changes, stress, and other underlying eye conditions like blepharitis. Styes are generally not contagious but can be recurrent if these risk factors persist. Key contributors to the development of styes:
- Bacterial infection blocking oil glands or eyelash follicles
- Poor eyelid hygiene and touching eyes with dirty hands
- Use of expired or contaminated eye makeup
- Hormonal fluctuations and stress weakening the immune system
- Other eye conditions causing inflammation (blepharitis)
- Contact lens use without proper hygiene
Most styes resolve on their own with warm compresses, but persistent cases may require medical treatment such as antibiotic creams or, rarely, surgical drainage.
