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Sty (cont.)

Stye Causes

Styes are usually caused by obstructed orifices (or openings) of the oil glands in the eyelid. Very frequently, they are infected by bacteria, most commonly Staphylococcal bacteria.

Seborrhea (excessive oily discharge from the glands) may increase the likelihood of developing one of these infections. Certain factors can contribute to the blockage of the glands:

  • improper or incomplete removal of eye makeup


  • use of outdated or infected cosmetics


  • poor eyelid hygiene


  • inflammatory diseases of the eyelid, such as blepharitis, meibomitis, and rosacea


  • stress


  • hormonal changes


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Hordeolum and Stye »

A hordeolum (ie, stye) is a localized infection or inflammation of the eyelid margin involving hair follicles of the eyelashes (ie, external hordeolum) or meibomian glands (ie, internal hordeolum).

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