Stye Prevention

Prevention

The best prevention against developing a hordeolum is to keep the area around the eye as clean as possible. Always wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eyes, and refrain from rubbing your eyes.

Although it may not be possible to prevent the development of every hordeolum, obtaining prompt treatment when one occurs is the best way to prevent future recurrences. It is important that you do not attempt to drain the hordeolum yourself. Any squeezing or poking at the hordeolum may cause more damage. The infection may be spread inadvertently, or damage to the eye could result.

Be sure to call your doctor immediately if:

You have vision problems
There is a blister or crusting on the eyelid
The white of the eye becomes red
The hordeolum bleeds
You have pain

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2025 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.