Styes: the two common types and how to clear them

This video is meant to expand your general knowledge about living a healthy life and is NOT a substitute for seeking medical advice. Please consult with your doctor before making changes in your health practices, diet and self-care.

In this video, optometrist Dr. Joseph J. Allen discusses the common occurrence of styes and offers natural remedies to clear them. A stye is a sudden-onset localised swelling of the eyelid, typically in the form of a hordeolum or a chalazion.

A chalazion is caused by non-infectious meibomian gland occlusion, whereas a hordeolum usually is caused by infection.

Styes are common and should clear up on their own within one or two weeks. They’re rarely a sign of anything serious, but may be painful until they heal.

Should a stye occur, it’s best to avoid wearing contact lenses and eye make-up until it heals. Bursting a stye should never be attempted, as this can spread the infection.

Natural remedies include applying a warm compress four to six times per day for 10-15 minutes at a time.

Where the stye remains painful or swollen, does not improve within a few weeks or significantly affects vision, it’s best to see a medical professional directly.

View the original video here.

Good Living is the Cyprus Mail’s portal of curated content from across the internet, showcasing local and global ideas, cultural highlights, and scientific and technological developments to inspire a sustainable life.