That Sty in Your Eye

A sty is an abscess on or inside the eyelid at the base of the eyelashes. Usually a small, red bump, it's caused by an infection, and may recur if not properly treated.

A warm compress may help speed up drainage of the sty, says the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign McKinley Health Center. You should take a clean cloth soaked in warm water, wring it out and hold it against the eye for 10-15 minutes.

Using a clean cloth each time, over the next three to four days, continue applying a compress about four times each day.

You should never try to squeeze or pop a sty, the university says, as this could spread the infection and cause injury. Ask your doctor about whether an antibiotic is needed to help clear the infection and prevent a recurrence.