How to Get Rid of a Sty on Your Eye

A sty is an infection on the eyelid, usually along the edge near the eye lashes, which results in a bump or pimple. While rarely serious, the condition can cause major discomfort including itching, pain, swelling of the eyelid and watery eyes. In most cases a sty will heal on its own in a few days. But there are treatment options that can provide relief from the symptoms and speed up the healing process.

Things You'll Need

• Sterile gauze or cotton pads
• Over-the-counter eye ointment or wash

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Instructions

• 1

  Apply a warm, wet compress to the eye three to six times per day. Soak a sterile gauze or cotton pad in hot -- but not scalding -- water, and apply to the affected eye. Leave in place for 10 to 15 minutes. This will relieve pain and help the sty come to a head, like a pimple.

• 2

  Use an over-the-counter eye ointment or wash. These can help keep the eye area clean and provide additional relief. There are also medicated pads available, which serve this same purpose. Apply these products according to package recommendations.

• 3

  See your eye doctor if the sty does not resolve on its own. Your doctor can provide additional treatment in the form of antibiotic ointments or drops, and can lance a sty that hasn't ruptured naturally to relieve pressure and pain. If you suffer from styes frequently, he or she may prescribe an antibiotic treatment to be used regularly as a preventative.