Having a barley in the eye can be a painful and annoying experience. Also known as a sty, it occurs when one of the tiny oil glands in the eyelid becomes clogged or infected.

While a barley is usually harmless and tends to go away on its own, there are several steps you can take to alleviate the discomfort and speed up the healing process.

1. Clean Your Eye

The first step in treating a barley is to clean your eye gently. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and warm water to avoid introducing any further bacteria into your eye.

Then, using a clean cotton pad or washcloth, dampened with warm water, gently clean the affected area. Avoid rubbing the eye vigorously, as it may exacerbate the situation.

2. Apply Warm Compresses

Applying warm compresses to the affected eyelid can help reduce inflammation and promote drainage. Moisten a clean washcloth or cotton pad with warm water and gently place it over the closed eye for around 10 to 15 minutes.

Repeat this process several times a day to provide relief and encourage the barley to heal more quickly.

3. Use Over-the-Counter Ointments

Over-the-counter ointments, such as those containing antibiotics or corticosteroids, can help reduce swelling and ease the discomfort associated with a barley.

Consult with your pharmacist or healthcare professional to determine the most suitable option for your specific situation. Follow the instructions provided on the packaging for the correct application.

4. Avoid Eye Makeup

While dealing with a barley, it’s important to avoid wearing eye makeup. Cosmetics can introduce additional bacteria into the eye and prolong the healing process. Additionally, eye makeup removers may irritate the infected area.

It’s best to keep the affected eye clean and free from any potential irritants until the barley has resolved.

5. Practice Good Eyelid Hygiene

To prevent future occurrences of barley or other eye infections, it’s essential to practice good eyelid hygiene. Keep your eyelids clean by gently washing them with a mild, fragrance-free cleanser or baby shampoo mixed with warm water.

Use a clean cloth or cotton pad to remove any debris, focusing on the eyelash base and the affected area.

6. Avoid Touching or Popping the Barley

As tempting as it may be, it is crucial to avoid touching or popping the barley. Popping it can lead to further infection and potential complications. If the barley is bothering you, try using warm compresses or over-the-counter ointments instead.

It’s essential to let the barley drain on its own to avoid causing more harm or introducing additional bacteria.

7. Consult a Healthcare Professional

If your barley does not improve within a few days or becomes increasingly painful or swollen, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

A healthcare professional can provide additional guidance, assess the severity of the infection, and prescribe medication if necessary. They may also give you specific instructions on how to treat the barley and prevent future occurrences.

8. Consider Home Remedies

In addition to the aforementioned treatments, several home remedies may help alleviate symptoms and promote healing.

These include gently massaging the affected area with clean hands, using a warm teabag (preferably a black tea bag) as a compress, or applying aloe vera gel directly to the barley. However, it’s important to note that these remedies may not work for everyone, and consulting a healthcare professional is still recommended.

9. Maintain Clean Contact Lens Practices

If you wear contact lenses, it’s crucial to practice good hygiene to prevent eye infections that could potentially lead to a barley.

Always wash your hands thoroughly before handling your contact lenses and follow the proper cleaning and disinfecting routines recommended by your optometrist. Avoid wearing contact lenses while dealing with a barley to prevent further irritation.

10. Give It Time to Heal

Lastly, it’s important to acknowledge that healing takes time. Most barleys resolve on their own within a week or two, while some may persist for slightly longer.

Avoid getting frustrated and trust that your body’s immune system will do its job. In the meantime, focus on practicing good eye hygiene and providing relief through warm compresses and over-the-counter ointments as needed.