How to Make a Stye Worse
A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a common and often painful condition characterized by a red, inflamed bump on the eyelid. While most styes resolve on their own within a few days, there are certain actions that can inadvertently worsen the condition. In this article, we will explore how to make a stye worse, so that you can avoid these pitfalls and ensure a quicker recovery.
1. Picking or Squeezing the Stye
One of the most common ways to make a stye worse is by picking or squeezing it. This action can force the infection deeper into the eyelid, leading to a more severe and prolonged inflammation. It can also introduce additional bacteria from your fingers into the affected area, causing the infection to spread.
2. Applying Heat Too Often
While applying a warm compress to a stye can help to relieve pain and promote healing, doing so too frequently can make the condition worse. Overheating the area can cause the stye to become more inflamed and painful. It’s best to apply a warm compress for about 10-15 minutes at a time, a few times a day, and to monitor the response of the stye to ensure it’s not worsening.
3. Using Makeup or Contact Lenses
Continuing to wear makeup or contact lenses over a stye can exacerbate the condition. These items can introduce bacteria into the affected area, causing the infection to worsen. It’s important to remove makeup and contact lenses immediately upon noticing a stye and to avoid using them until the stye has healed completely.
4. Touching Your Eyes with Dirty Hands
Touching your eyes with dirty hands is a surefire way to make a stye worse. Bacteria from your hands can easily transfer to your eyes, causing the infection to spread and become more severe. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes or applying any ointments or compresses.
5. Ignoring the Warning Signs
If you notice that your stye is not improving or is getting worse, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Ignoring the warning signs can lead to complications, such as a chalazion (a cyst on the eyelid) or a more severe infection. A healthcare professional can provide appropriate treatment and advice to help you recover more quickly.
In conclusion, while it’s important to take steps to alleviate the pain and promote healing, there are certain actions that can make a stye worse. By avoiding picking, squeezing, overusing heat, wearing makeup or contact lenses, touching your eyes with dirty hands, and ignoring warning signs, you can help ensure a quicker and more comfortable recovery from this common eye condition.
