eye-sty

[Astroboy14]

Anyone know what causes these? I have one now, and it hurts!

How can I avoid them in the future, and what (other than a heat pack) can be done about it now?

[Atropos]

I think they are caused by ingrown eyelashes, or an infection of the follicle in general.

How to avoid them? I have no idea. How to get rid of them? Go to the nearest crossroads and say "Sty sty in my eye, go to the next passerby."

Don't forget to NOT spread the infection by rubbing your eyes.

[Duck Duck Goose]

Fun stuff.
http://www.eyesearch.com/disorders.d...stions.htm#Sty

A sty can often be treated with hot compresses of the eyelid. The heat helps to drain the clogged oil gland, which creates a sty. This can be done for five to ten minutes, two to four times a day. When hot compresses on the eyelid are ineffective, usually medical treatment such as eyedrops or ointment is necessary and at that point it is wise to have a doctor look at the sty. Fortunately it is extremely rare for a sty to progressively worsen, even though it can be uncomfortable. However, if it does appear to enlarge or the swelling or redness spreads it should be evaluated by a doctor immediately.

http://www.cigna.com/consumer/educat...r/wb98c10.html

A sty is an infected oil gland on the edge of the eyelid. Common but not contagious, a sty is usually caused by bacteria called staphylococci.

If a sty is painful, put a warm (not hot), moist compress on it several times a day for 5 to 10 minutes at a time. In addition to easing the pain, the compress also helps the sty to drain.

Never poke or squeeze a sty, no matter how much you may want to. An open sty is dangerous because it can spread the infection behind and around the eye. If a sty blocks your vision or doesn't drain by itself within a week, see your doctor.

Cleanliness is the best way to prevent sties. Keep infection-causing bacteria out of your eyes by always washing your hands, and then your eyelids with a washcloth and warm water before putting in or taking out contact lenses and before putting on eye makeup.

Also be sure to keep eye makeup applicators clean, don't use saliva to wet eye makeup, don't share makeup and throw old eye makeup away. These can all breed bacteria, which can cause a sty.

And the winner of today's "Huh?" Award is a website that advocated washing the affected eye with straight baby shampoo in an eyecup once a day until it clears up. Needless to say, I'm not going to include THAT link here.