Over The Counter Medicine For Stye On Eyelid
Styes are a common eye infection that can occur on the eyelid. They develop when the glands in the eyelids become infected, causing a small bump to form on the eyelid. Styes can be painful and uncomfortable, but they are typically not serious and can be treated with over-the-counter medicines.
What Causes Styes?
Styes are caused by bacteria that live on the skin. When the bacteria enter the glands in the eyelids, they can cause an infection. The infection causes the gland to become swollen and inflamed, resulting in a stye. Styes can also be caused by poor hygiene, such as not washing your face or hands regularly.
Symptoms of Styes
The most common symptoms of a stye include:
- A small bump on the eyelid
- Pain or discomfort in the affected area
- Redness and swelling around the bump
- Tenderness when touching the bump
- Crusting along the eyelid margin
- Increased tear production
Over-the-Counter Medicines for Styes
There are several over-the-counter medicines that can be used to treat styes. These medicines can help relieve the pain and inflammation caused by the infection.
1. Warm Compresses
Applying a warm compress to the affected area can help relieve the pain and reduce the swelling. To make a warm compress, soak a clean cloth in warm water and wring it out. Hold the compress against the stye for 5-10 minutes at a time, several times a day.
2. OTC Pain Relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help relieve the pain and discomfort caused by a stye. Follow the instructions on the label and do not exceed the recommended dose.
3. Antibiotic Ointments
Antibiotic ointments can be applied directly to the stye to help treat the infection. These ointments can be found over-the-counter at most drugstores.
4. Sterile Eyelid Wipes
Sterile eyelid wipes can be used to clean the affected area and help prevent the infection from spreading. These wipes can be found over-the-counter at most drugstores.
When to See a Doctor
Most styes will go away on their own within a week or two. However, if the stye does not improve or gets worse, it is important to see a doctor. A doctor may prescribe antibiotics or recommend other treatments to help get rid of the infection. Additionally, if the stye is affecting your vision, you should see a doctor immediately.
Conclusion
Styes can be uncomfortable and painful, but they are typically not serious and can be treated with over-the-counter medicines. Warm compresses, over-the-counter pain relievers, antibiotic ointments, and sterile eyelid wipes can all help relieve the pain and inflammation caused by a stye. If the stye does not improve or gets worse, it is important to see a doctor. With proper treatment, most styes will go away on their own within a week or two.
