Expert: Nigel Simmons - 10/31/2006

Question
I keep getting stys in my eyes.  After they go away I don't feel anything for about a week and then they show up again.  Is there something I can do to avoid them as they are painful.  They never really come to a head, but are very tender under the skin.  Should I be on an antiobiodic?  I have not gone to the doctor yet.  Thanks!

Answer
Sherry

Recurrant styes can be a probem and treatment is often a matter of hygeine and perseverence.

Firstly, an antibacterial eye ointment will deal with the current infections and may be available through your local pharmacy or otherwise via your doctor.

Once the immediate problem has been addressed, you need to be very attentive to preventing re-infection or cross-infection (transferring the problem from one eye to the other). Most importantly, do your best to avoid rubbing your eyes and face. Avoid using cosmetics around your eyes if possible until the problem settles and then be careful not to apply mascara or similar close to the base of eyelashes as this can block the follicles and create the infection.

At the end of the day, wash your face thoroughly and cleanse around the eyes from your nose outwards. If you use cleansing pads or tissues, use a separate one for each eye.

Try to avoid using perfumed or moisturising soaps for the time being as these may aggrevate the problem, but speak to your pharmacist about an antibacterial soap and use this. It won't treat infections, but will help reduce the levels of bacteria on your skin which can be transferred to your face.

Finally, do your best to get sufficient sleep. When you are tired, the natural habit is to rub your eyes. A good sleep will reduce this. I suspect you are young, as recurrent styes are common in teenagers, so it is also something you should grow out of if you can achieve good general hygeine.

What you should not do is try applying antiseptics around your face. They will almost certainly burn and may cause permanent damage.

I hope this helps.