This video is meant to expand your general knowledge about living a healthy life and is NOT a substitute for seeking medical advice. Please consult with your doctor before making changes in your health practices, diet and self-care.

In this video, optometrist Dr. Joseph J. Allen discusses the common occurrence of styes and offers natural remedies to clear them. A stye is a sudden-onset localised swelling of the eyelid, typically in the form of a hordeolum or a chalazion.

A chalazion is caused by non-infectious meibomian gland occlusion, whereas a hordeolum usually is caused by infection.

Styes are common and should clear up on their own within one or two weeks. They’re rarely a sign of anything serious, but may be painful until they heal.

Should a stye occur, it’s best to avoid wearing contact lenses and eye make-up until it heals. Bursting a stye should never be attempted, as this can spread the infection.

Natural remedies include applying a warm compress four to six times per day for 10-15 minutes at a time.

Where the stye remains painful or swollen, does not improve within a few weeks or significantly affects vision, it’s best to see a medical professional directly.

View the original video here.

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