Styes are a common issue that most people experience at least once in their lives. They are red, tender bumps found on the eyelid. They are not only uncomfortable and inconvenient but also affect your appearance. In many cases, occasional styes go away on their own. At-home treatments are effective. However, recurrent styes are a cause for concern. You may wonder whether recurrent styes indicate an underlying eye condition. Below you will find helpful information about what to do if you keep getting styes.

Can Recurrent Styes Indicate an Underlying Eye Condition?

Recurrent styes require an evaluation. Stye treatment can address the issue, so you no longer have to deal with the condition. A stye is an infection of one of the small glands in the eyelids. The glands in the eyes produce the oily layer of the tear film. When one of the glands in the eyelids becomes blocked, bacteria can get trapped inside. This leads to an infection, which leads to styes.

One stye is not a serious cause for concern. While it looks like a zit and is uncomfortable, there is no major medical issue. Treating the issue at home with a warm compress is often highly effective. Keep your eyes clean and maintain regular eyelid hygiene practices. These issues are often a one-time problem. However, recurrent styes are a cause for concern and can signal a deeper issue.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis is the most common underlying condition associated with recurrent styes. It is characterized by chronic inflammation of the eyelid. It is found on the margins of the eyelids and impacts the oil glands and lash follicles. When the eyelids are consistently inflamed, the oil glands do not function properly. This becomes more prone to blockages and infections. Inflammation also creates a favorable environment for bacteria to thrive.

Treatment is necessary to address blepharitis. Many people are unaware that they have it, which is why it is important to seek treatment if you have recurrent styes. The symptoms develop gradually. You may notice styes in addition to redness, irritation, and a gritty feeling. Many people also experience crusting along the eyelashes when they wake up/ Treating the underlying issue often resolves recurrent styes.

Oil Gland Dysfunction

The oil glands in the eyes are closely linked to blepharitis. When the meibomian glands do not function properly, it can lead to recurrent styes. Blockages often occur when the glands produce thick and unhealthy oil. Blocked glands can easily become infected. This creates a cycle of issues, including styes.

Addressing meibomian gland dysfunction is necessary. This is more than just at-home treatments. Maintaining proper eyelid hygiene is important. However, professional treatment at the top eyelid surgery center is key. The underlying issue can be treated to reduce the risk of styes.

When to See a Specialist

Many people avoid going to the doctor. However, recurrent styes require evaluation. If you have had more than one stye within a short period, it is time to consult with a professional. Styes that have not resolved within 1 week should also be evaluated. This is especially true if they have not improved with at-home treatment. Before treatment, maintain proper eyelid hygiene to reduce the risk of further harm.

Meeting with a professional can treat the styes and the underlying condition. A board-certified oculofacial plastic surgeon can evaluate the entire picture. This includes the stye, the health of your eyelid margins, and the function of your meibomian glands. From there, they can assess the cause of your symptoms and how to address the issue. A customized treatment plan will be created to address your unique needs.

Treatment Options for Recurrent Styes

Treating the stye itself is only part of the solution. Addressing the underlying cause is also essential. Below are some of the most effective treatment options. The treatment that is right for you depends on the underlying cause and the severity of your symptoms.

Warm Compresses and Eyelid Hygiene

This is an essential part of most treatment plans. A warm compress can be applied at home to provide relief. Consistent eyelid hygiene is non-negotiable when it comes to your eye health.

Medications

Medication is often used to address styes and the underlying issue. Antibiotic ointments, drops, or oral antibiotics may be necessary. These medications can help with inflammation and infection.

Advanced Treatment

Severe cases may require more intervention. IPL therapy is used to reduce eyelid inflammation. It also improves meibomian gland dysfunction. Surgical drainage may also be necessary to address the issue.

Top Eyelid Surgery Center

Styes can be uncomfortable and impact your appearance. If you suffer from recurrent styes, contact the team at Clarity Eye and Face today to schedule your consultation!