Stye Prevention

Prevention

The best prevention against developing a hordeolum is to keep the area around the eye as clean as possible. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes, and refrain from rubbing your eyes.

Although it may not be possible to prevent the development of every hordeolum, obtaining prompt treatment when one occurs is the best way to prevent future recurrences. It is important that you do not attempt to drain the hordeolum yourself. Any squeezing or poking at the hordeolum may cause more damage. The infection may be spread inadvertently, or damage to the eye could result.

Be sure to call your doctor immediately if:

• You have vision problems
• There is a blister or crusting on the eyelid
• The white of the eye becomes red
• The hordeolum bleeds
• You have pain