“Sty” usually means a small, painful bump that forms on or near the edge of the eyelid. It happens when an oil gland or hair follicle gets blocked and becomes infected.
People often use the word “sty” when talking about an eye that is red, swollen, or sore. It is a common problem, and most people just say they have “a sty” instead of using a medical term.
Meaning & Usage
A sty is a small lump on the eyelid that can look like a pimple. It may hurt, feel tender, and make the eye feel irritated. In everyday English, people use it to describe this eye problem in a simple way.
Examples
For example, someone might say, “I think I have a sty on my eye,” or “Her eyelid is swollen because of a sty.”
Is a sty contagious?
No, a sty itself is usually not contagious. But it can happen when bacteria get into the eye area, so keeping your hands clean helps.
How long does a sty last?
Most sties go away on their own in a few days to a week. Warm compresses are often used to help it heal faster.
When should I see a doctor?
You should see a doctor if the sty is very painful, keeps coming back, or does not improve after several days.
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