What are the Treatments for Styes and Blepharitis?
The key to long-term success is to restore the health of the Meibomian glands so that they secrete clear, liquid oil into the tears. There are three aspects to treatment: #1 Heat Hot compresses liquefy the stale, packed oils in the glands and inside styes and encourage improved drainage. Hot compresses using a warm washcloth do not work as the cloth stays warm for a few seconds only. The best way to apply heat is to use the “rice in a nylon sock” trick: place about ½ cup of uncooked rice in the foot of a nylon stocking, knot it off, cut off the leftover stocking, and place the rice bag in the microwave. Depending on your microwave you will have to nuke the rice 20 to 40 seconds. Experiment on yourself first so that you do not scald your child! The rice sock will stay warm for up to 5 minutes, and it packs down well over the eye lids. Often children can hold the rice sock on themselves, in return for a “treat” activity such as watching TV while using the sock. The more heat the better!
