Hordelum
Hordelum Causes
The cause of a sty is a bacterial infection, often staphylococcus. Typically the bacterial infection develops near the root (follicle) of an eyelash. There may be more than one sty at a time or several in succession.
Hordelum Definition
A sty (hordeolum) is a red, painful lump on the edge or inside of the eyelid that may look like a boil or a pimple. Often a sty is filled with pus. As it swells in size, the sty may make it difficult for the person to see clearly because he can't fully open his eye.
Hordelum Diagnosis
If the signs and symptoms of a sty persist or if there have been successive infections, the doctor may want to exclude other possible causes.
Hordelum Symptoms and Signs
Most sties typically fill with pus and then rupture. The release of pus produces one major symptom of sties ? pain. Usually the sty then goes away. Symptoms of sties include: pain, a red lump similar to a boil or a pimple; swelling in the eyelid; light sensitivity; a scratchy sensation in the eye; and tearing.
Hordelum Treatment
If the doctor confirms the sty, he or she may prescribe a topical antibiotic cream to apply to the eyelid. To treat a pus-filled sty that won't rupture or burst on its own, the doctor or ophthalmologist may choose to lance and drain the sty to relieve pain and pressure. Usually sty treatment doesn't require oral antibiotics unless there is a generalized infection of the eyelid.