What causes eye styes in adults?
Eye styes, also known as hordeolons, are small, red bumps that appear on the eyelid. They are often painful and can be quite unsightly. But what causes eye styes in adults? Understanding the causes can help in preventing and treating them effectively.
One of the most common causes of eye styes in adults is bacterial infection. The bacteria responsible for these infections are typically Staphylococcus aureus, which can be found on the skin and in the nose. When the bacteria enter the tiny openings of the eyelash follicles or oil glands, they can cause inflammation and lead to the formation of a sty.
Another cause of eye styes in adults is blocked oil glands. These glands, located at the base of the eyelashes, produce an oil called sebum that helps to keep the eyelids healthy. When these glands become blocked, the oil builds up and can lead to an infection.
Additionally, eye styes can be caused by poor eyelid hygiene. If the eyelids are not cleaned properly, bacteria can accumulate and lead to infections. This is especially true for people with conditions like blepharitis, which is an inflammation of the eyelids.
Styes can also be triggered by factors such as:
– rubbing the eyes frequently
– wearing contact lenses
– wearing makeup that has been in contact with the eyes
– exposure to allergens
In the following sections, we will explore these causes in more detail and discuss how to prevent and treat eye styes in adults.
