Have you ever had what looks like a pimple growing on your upper or lower eyelid? If so, you probably experienced stye (clinically known as a hordeolum), and they can actually be quite painful. However, while they often heal on their own, they are contagious. But, there are treatments that can help eliminate them.
Most styes don’t cause any interference with vision, but, according to AllAboutVision.com, they can accompany other eye problems. Here are 12 common causes, symptoms, and things you can do about a stye…
1. It’s Usually a Bacterial Infection
AllAboutVision.com explains that styes are caused by staphylococcal (“staph”) bacteria, which is found in the nose and can easily be transferred to the eyes through rubbing them.
The source also explains that “pretty much everyone has this stye-causing bacteria in their body” and it’s possible to develop a stye without being contaminated by an outside source. Just to be sure you don’t infect someone else, it’s best not to share pillows, washcloths or towels.