What exactly is a stye (external hordeolum)?
An external hordeolum is an infection of an eyelash gland in the eyelid. Usually the area is inflamed, hot to the touch, and red. The best treatment for this condition is to apply wet hot compresses to the area on a fairly frequent basis (2-4 times per day). Most external hordeolum take several days to two weeks to go away. Prescription drops and ointments may be used to treat this condition. If for some reason the condition persists, it may be necessary to perform a procedure to treat the infected area by removing the accumulated infectious matter.
