Some people notice that when they get stressed or run down, they are more likely to develop a stye. Is there a correlation between the two, or is it just coincidence?
What Causes a Stye to Develop?
A stye is caused by an infection that has occurred in the oil glands in the eyelid. Anyone can develop a stye, but you’re more at risk if you allow bacteria to get near the eye such as by touching your eyes with dirty hands, leaving eye makeup on overnight or using expired cosmetics. Inserting contact lenses without washing your hands or disinfecting the lenses can also create styes.
Are Styes Stress Related?
Generally speaking, a stye that pops up every once in awhile probably has nothing to do with being stressed. As you read above, styes are caused from bacterial infections. However, it is true that recurrent styes can be a sign of stress. When the body is tired and overworked, it excretes certain chemicals and hormones that are believed to bring on things like styes and pimples.
If you are frequently waking up with styes, it’s important to find out why this is the case by consulting with your retina specialist. Styes can be painful, and though most of the time they clear up on their own, the infection is capable of spreading to other parts of the eye.
Preparing for Your Appointment
The first step is to meet with your eye doctor or general practitioner. They may refer you to an eye specialist or ophthalmologist if your styes are recurrent. Some of the most important questions to ask the retina doctor include:
● What is the likely cause of the stye?
● When will it go away?
● Is it contagious?
● Is there any way to treat it?
● Can I continue wearing contact lenses?
● Are there any side effects from the medication?
Prevention and Lifestyle Remedies
Usually, an antibiotic eyedrop will be prescribed to get rid of the infection. A warm compress or washcloth can offer pain relief in the meantime. To treat recurrent styes, your ophthalmologist doctor may recommend certain cleaning regimens or not wearing contacts. You’ll also be reminded to use clean, fresh makeup and to wash your hands frequently.
If stress is considered to be a contributing factor, you’ll need to find ways to better manage it. A relaxing bath at night or a warm cup of tea in the afternoons can make a difference. It’s also important to eat healthy foods to boost your immunity and strength.
If you continue to get painful styes, schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist doctor in New York right away. Recurrent styes are a sign that something is going on, so listen to your eyes and find out what it is!