What causes styes?
What a stye is, what it isn't, and when to see an eye-care professional.
- Author
- Dr. Bilal Ismail, OD
- Medically reviewed by
- Dr. Bilal Ismail, OD
- Published
- 2025-11-04
- Last reviewed
- 2025-12-15
A stye is a tender, localized swelling along the eyelid, usually related to a blocked or inflamed gland or follicle.
Warmth is often mentioned as part of routine care, but any painful, worsening, or persistent lid swelling should be evaluated in person.
References
- American Academy of Ophthalmology: chalazia and styes — Patient education overview.
This article is for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.