As an expert in the field of ophthalmology, I can provide you with a detailed explanation of what happens when you pop a stye and the proper course of action to take.

A stye, also known as a hordeolum, is a red, painful lump that forms on the edge of an eyelid, often near the base of the eyelashes. It is typically caused by a bacterial infection, most commonly Staphylococcus aureus, which can lead to the formation of a small abscess. Popping a stye is not recommended for several reasons:


1. Infection Risk: Popping a stye can introduce more bacteria into the area, increasing the risk of infection and potentially leading to more severe complications.


2. Scarring: The forceful extraction of the pus from a stye can damage the delicate skin around the eye, potentially resulting in scarring.


3. Spread of Infection: The act of popping can spread the infection to other parts of the eyelid or even to the other eye.


4. Delayed Healing: By disrupting the natural healing process, popping a stye can prolong the time it takes for the stye to heal.

Instead of popping a stye, it is best to follow these steps to allow it to heal naturally:

- Warm Compresses: Apply a warm, clean cloth to the affected area for 10-15 minutes, several times a day. This can help to reduce inflammation and bring the stye to a head, facilitating its natural drainage.

- Avoid Touching: Refrain from touching or rubbing the stye, as this can worsen the condition.

- Maintain Hygiene: Keep the area around the eye clean and avoid sharing towels or makeup, which can spread bacteria.

- Over-the-Counter Treatments: Some people find relief with over-the-counter treatments, such as artificial tears or ointments with hydrocortisone, which can help to reduce inflammation.

- Medical Consultation: If the stye does not improve after a few days, or if it is particularly painful or vision-impairing, it is important to consult an eye doctor. In some cases, particularly with internal styes that do not rupture on their own, a doctor may need to surgically open and drain the stye to promote healing.

It is crucial to understand that while styes can be uncomfortable and unsightly, they are generally not a serious health threat and will typically resolve on their own within a week or two with proper care.

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You shouldn't pop a style like you would a pimple. Allow the stye to rupture on its own. A stye that forms inside the eyelid (called an internal hordeolum) might not rupture and heal on its own. Because this type of stye can be more serious, your eye doctor may need to open and drain it.Feb 12, 2018read more >>