A stye is a red, painful lump near the edge of the eyelid that may look like a boil or a pimple. It is caused by an infection of oil glands in the eyelid, and the bacterium staphylococcus is commonly responsible for most of these infections. The following are some of the risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing a stye:

• Touching the eyes with unwashed hands
• Inserting contact lenses without thoroughly disinfecting them or washing hands first
• Leaving on eye makeup overnight
• Using old or expired cosmetics
• Having long-term blepharitis or other eye conditions

Styes are usually harmless and will begin to disappear on their own in a couple of days. However, some cases may require treatment by an eye care provider. To relieve the pain or discomfort of a stye, applying a warm washcloth to the eyelid for five to 10 minutes several times a day and gently massaging the eyelid may help. It is important to avoid bursting a stye or removing an eyelash yourself, as this can spread the infection. Contact a doctor if the stye doesnt start to improve after 48 hours, or if redness and swelling involve the entire eyelid or extend into the cheek or other parts of the face.