Styes Directory
A stye is an inflamed oil gland or hair follicle on the eyelid. It may occur along the lash line (external) or under the eyelid (internal). Both are swollen, red, and painful, but external styes usually do not last long. Styes are caused by bacteria that normally exist harmlessly on the skin of the eye. Styes often do not require treatment other than warm compresses, but for recurring styes, doctors may recommend an antibiotic. Surgery may sometimes be used to drain a stye. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how a stye is caused, what it looks like, how to treat it, and much more.
Medical Reference
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How to Get Rid of a Stye
Learn more about the eye infection known as a stye and how to treat it.
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Styes & Chalazia on Eyelids
Get the basics on styes and chalazia, including causes.
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Understanding Stye -- Symptoms
What are the symptoms of a stye or chalazion? Learn more about these common eye problems from the experts at WebMD.
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Styes: How Do You Prevent Them?
Can styes be prevented? Find out from the experts at WebMD.
Video
Slideshows & Images
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Slideshow: Visual Guide to Styes and Chalazia
Is that a stye in your eye? Or a chalazion? Find out the differences and what to do if you have one of these eye problems.
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Slideshow: Unusual Eye Conditions
From bloody tears to multiple pupils, learn more about the unusual conditions that can affect your eyes.