I have a lump on one eyelid, what might it be?

Lumps and bumps can form on the eyelids for a number of reasons. Some common conditions include a stye , a chalazion , fatty deposits in the skin below the eye, and inflammation of the lid edge due to an allergy . If you notice any unusual changes to your eyelid, it’s best to go and see your optometrist.

Should I burst a stye?

No – you should avoid touching or putting pressure on the stye yourself as this can create further complications. Instead, you could apply a warm compress to the affected eye a few times a day for about 10‑15 minutes at a time. This can help to accelerate healing and help ease any symptoms you may be having. You should see your optometrist is you notice any changes in your eyelid appearance or have any symptoms associated with it.

Stye | Specsavers CA

What is a stye?

Also known as a hordeolum, a small, painful lump that can form on the inner or outer surface of the eyelid. It can form as a result of an infected eyelash follicle or infected oil glands (called meibomian glands) that are located near the base of your eyelashes. Sometimes, these glands can get clogged with dirt, dead skin cells, or bacteria. When this happens, it can create a sore, tender lump on your eyelid.

Symptoms

Symptoms of a stye may include:

A small bump on the inside or outside of the eyelid (looks a bit like a spot)
Swollen, red eyelid
Feels painful or tender, especially upon blinking

Styes on the outside of the eyelid are usually a little bit more painful, but easier to treat. It is possible to get recurrent styes either in the same eye or in both eyes, however, they usually present in one eye at a time.

Common causes

Our eyelids contain numerous small glands that function to keep the outer surface of the eye moist and healthy. Bacteria normally found on the skin (Staphylococcus) can find their way into one of these glands, causing an infection. A stye could also be caused by an infected eyelash follicle.

Treatment

A stye will usually resolve on its own after a couple weeks. However, there are a few ways of accelerating this process and help ease your symptoms:

While it’s healing, your optometrist might recommend that you avoid wearing contact lenses and eye make‑up to reduce any further irritation to the eye
Avoid touching or putting pressure on the stye yourself as this can create further complications
Apply a warm compress to the affected eye a few times a day for about 10‑15 minutes at a time

If your symptoms get particularly bothersome, or the stye isn’t going away, you should visit your optometrist for further advice.

Next steps

We want to help you see clearly and keep your eyes healthy for as long as possible. If your optometrist detects any signs of an eye condition during your comprehensive eye exam, they will determine an appropriate management plan that suits your needs.

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Reviewed by Dr. Brendon Bjarnason

Dr. Brendon Bjarnason is a Doctor of Optometry located in Edmonton, Alberta at the Southgate Centre. He completed his optometry degree at Pacific University College of Optometry in Portland, Oregon. Currently, Dr. Bjarnason practices primary eyecare, with special interests in retinal disease, myopia control, and contact lenses and also serves on the Alberta Association of Optometrists Tele‑Optometry and Artificial Intelligence subcommittee.

Noticed a change in your eyesight?

If you have any concerns about your eye health, contact or visit your local optometrist immediately – even if you do not have an appointment.