If you’ve noticed a small, white bump on your eyelid, you might have an eye barley. Also known as a stye, eye barleys are a common condition that can be uncomfortable and unsightly.

Luckily, there are several ways to deal with a stye, from home remedies to medical treatment.

What is an Eye Barley?

An eye barley is a small lump that forms on the eyelid. It’s usually red, swollen, and painful, and it can cause the eye to water or become sensitive to light.

Eye barleys are caused by an infection in the oil gland of the eyelid and are usually caused by bacteria.

Home Remedies for Eye Barleys

If you have a minor eye barley, you might be able to treat it at home. Here are a few remedies that can help:.

Warm Compress

A warm compress can help to soothe the eye and reduce inflammation. To make a warm compress, soak a clean cloth in warm water and hold it against the affected eye for 5-10 minutes at a time. Repeat this several times a day.

Tea Bags

Tea bags are a natural way to decrease swelling and reduce pain. Use a tea bag that has been steeped in warm water, wring out any excess water, and place it over the affected eye for 5-10 minutes.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has natural antibacterial properties that can help to fight the infection causing the stye. Apply fresh aloe vera gel to the affected area several times a day.

Medical Treatment for Eye Barleys

If your eye barley is severe or hinders your vision, it might be necessary to seek medical treatment. Here are a few options:.

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Antibiotics

If the stye is caused by bacteria, your doctor might prescribe an antibiotic ointment or eye drops to help clear the infection.

Incision and Drainage

In some cases, a stye might need to be drained to relieve pressure and pain. Your doctor might use a small needle or lancet to puncture the stye and drain the pus.

Preventing Eye Barleys

While it’s impossible to completely prevent a stye, there are a few steps you can take to minimize your risk:.

Practice Good Hygiene

Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes unnecessarily.

Remove Makeup Before Bed

Leaving makeup on overnight can clog the oil glands of your eyelids, increasing your risk of developing a stye.

Don’t Share Eye Makeup

Sharing eye makeup can spread bacteria and increase your risk of developing an eye barley.

Final Thoughts

An eye barley can be uncomfortable and even painful, but it’s usually not serious. With home remedies and medical treatment, you can manage the symptoms of a stye and speed up the healing process.

If you experience severe pain, vision changes, or your stye doesn’t improve within a few days, contact your doctor for further treatment.