Medically known as hordeolum, a stye (also called stie) is a red, painful lump on the edge or inside of the eyelid that may have an appearance similar to a boil or a pimple. A stye is typically filled with pus and as it swells in size, a person’s ability to see may become impaired as he or she can't fully open their eye.

Sties can occur in multiple’s which can lead to blepharitis, a generalized inflammation of the eyelid. The good news is that in most cases, sties disappear in just a few days.

In most cases, sties eventually become filled with pus and then rupture. With the release of pus, pain is usually relieved and the stye then disappears. Prior to this happening, a stye is characterized by the following signs and symptoms:

- A red lump similar to a boil or a pimple

- Swelling on the eyelid

- Light sensitivity

- A scratchy sensation in the eye

- Tearing

Sties are caused by bacterial infection, usually staphylococcus which typically develops near the root (follicle) of an eyelash.

The regimen outlined below includes some safe, natural steps to treat & prevent sties:

If infected, avoid rubbing the eyes as this can irritate the eyes and spread infection.

When outside or working in a polluted area, always wear protective eyewear.

Replace eye makeup, especially mascara, every six months.

NEVER "pop" a stye like a pimple, allow it to rupture on its own.

To promote the drainage of the abscess and reduce pain, apply a hot compress for 10 or 15 minutes, three to four times a day.

Supplementing with the following may also be helpful:

Eyebright (take as directed on label) - Treats sore, itchy eyes.

Raspberry Leaf Tea (take as directed on label) - Alleviates sties when used as an eyewash.

Oregon Grape Root (take as directed on label) - Natural antibiotic.

Goldenseal (take as directed on label) - Helps soothe mucus membranes.

Echinacea (take as directed on label) - Natural antibacterial.

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