A stye is a tender bump that forms on the eyelid, usually near the lashes. It often looks like a pimple and can cause redness, swelling, and discomfort. Most styes are caused by a blocked oil gland or a bacterial infection. While they usually go away on their own, they can hang around for a week or more—and that’s a long time to squint through irritation.
In a place like Longmont, where dry air, fluctuating temperatures, and heavy screen time are part of daily life, it’s no surprise that residents may experience eyelid issues like styes more frequently. If you’ve had a few styes lately, it might be time for an eye exam at The Optical Centre to assess your eye health and prevent future flare-ups.
The Best Drops for a Stye: What to Know Before You Buy
Not all eye drops are created equal, especially when it comes to treating styes. Some offer soothing relief, while others can actually make things worse. Here's what to know before choosing drops for that painful bump on your eyelid:
1. Lubricating Eye Drops (Artificial Tears)
These are your go-to for comfort. While they don’t treat the stye itself, lubricating eye drops reduce dryness and irritation in the affected eye. If the stye is causing discomfort or making your eye feel gritty, these drops provide soothing relief.
2. Over-the-Counter Eye Drops for Stye Relief
Some drops claim to relieve stye symptoms, but many are just mild lubricants. Be cautious of generic “redness relief” formulas; they often contain vasoconstrictors that can irritate the eye further. Instead, look for drops labeled specifically as eye drops good for stye relief, or consult your optometrist at The Optical Centre before using them.
3. Prescription Eye Drops for Styes
If your stye is infected or doesn’t improve after a few days of home remedies, our eye doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops. These fight the underlying bacterial infection and are more effective than OTC options for stubborn or painful styes.
4. Eye Ointments vs. Eye Drops
For some patients, a stye ointment may be more effective than drops. Ointments are thicker and stay on the eye longer, making them useful for treating the eyelid directly. They’re especially helpful when applied before bed to allow overnight absorption.
How to Use Eye Drops Safely and Effectively for Styes
Using eye drops for a stye may seem straightforward, but a few minor mistakes can delay healing or cause irritation. Follow these tips to get the most out of your treatment and protect the affected eye:
- Wash your hands first to prevent further infection.
- Use drops only as directed, usually 1 to 2 times a day unless advised otherwise.
- Avoid touching the dropper tip to your eye or lashes.
- Remove contact lenses before applying drops and keep them out until the stye heals.
If symptoms worsen after a few days or you notice increased redness and swelling, reach out to The Optical Centre for an eye evaluation.
Preventing Future Styes
Once a stye heals, most patients want to avoid another one. These simple habits can help reduce your risk and keep your eyelids healthy and clear:
- Keep your eyelids clean with gentle cleansers or wipes.
- Avoid sharing eye makeup and replace it regularly.
- Use lubricating eye drops if you’re prone to dry eye.
- Clean your contact lenses properly, and never sleep in them unless prescribed.
- Take breaks from screens to reduce eye strain and blinking issues.
Find Stye Relief and Support at The Optical Centre in Longmont, CO
If you’re dealing with a stubborn stye or want help finding the right drops for stye treatment, our team at The Optical Centre is here to help. We provide gentle, personalized eye care for the Longmont community and can guide you toward practical solutions that work for your eyes and lifestyle.
Book your comprehensive eye exam, and we'll help support your eye health every step of the way.
Stye and Eye Drops FAQs
Can You Use Pink Eye Drops for a Stye?
It’s a common question. But no, you should not use pink eye drops (like those for conjunctivitis) unless your eye doctor has recommended them. These drops are formulated for a different condition and may contain ingredients that don’t help or even irritate a stye.
Is a stye contagious?
Not exactly. While the infection isn’t usually spread between people, sharing makeup or towels can spread the bacteria that cause styes.
How long does it take for a stye to heal?
Most styes resolve on their own within 1 to 2 weeks. Using warm compresses and appropriate drops can speed healing.