Eye barley, also known as a stye or hordeolum, is a red, painful bump that can appear on the eyelid. It can be caused by various factors and can be a source of discomfort for many people.
In this article, we will explore the causes of eye barley, the symptoms, and how to get rid of it.
Causes of Eye Barley
Eye barley is caused by an infection of the oil glands in the eyelids. This infection is typically caused by the bacteria staphylococcus.
Eye barley can also develop due to the clogging of these glands, causing the oil to accumulate and causing inflammation in the affected area.
Other possible causes of eye barley include:.
- Stress
- Poor hygiene
- Conjunctivitis
- Contact lens wear
- Viral infections
- Meibomian gland dysfunction
Symptoms of Eye Barley
The symptoms of eye barley vary depending on the severity of the infection. They include:.
- A red and painful bump on the eyelid
- Tenderness and swelling around the affected area
- A gritty or scratchy sensation in the eye
- Watery eyes
- Sensitivity to light
How to Get Rid of Eye Barley
There are several ways to treat eye barley depending on the severity of the infection.
Home Remedies
You can use a warm compress to reduce the swelling and discomfort. Apply the compress to the affected area for 10 minutes several times a day. Make sure the compress is not too hot to avoid burning the skin around the eye.
You can use a clean washcloth or a cotton pad soaked in warm water.
Clean the affected area with a mild soap and water. Avoid rubbing the eye or using makeup until the infection is healed.
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Eye Barley – Causes and Treatments
Apply aloe vera gel or tea tree oil to the affected area to help reduce swelling and inflammation. These natural remedies have antibacterial properties that can help fight the infection.
Over-the-Counter Medications
You can use over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with eye barley. If the pain is severe, consult a doctor for prescription pain relief medications.
You can also use over-the-counter antibiotic ointments and eye drops to help fight the infection. These products are available at your local pharmacy and are usually applied to the affected area several times a day.
Medical Treatment
If the infection is severe or does not respond to home remedies or over-the-counter medications, you may need medical treatment.
A doctor may prescribe antibiotics or other medications to help fight the infection and reduce the inflammation. If the infection is recurrent, the doctor may perform surgery to remove the affected glands.
It is important to seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:.
- The infection does not improve after several days
- The infected area spreads to other parts of the eye
- Vision changes
- The infection recurs frequently
Prevention
There are several ways to prevent eye barley from occurring:.
- Wash your hands often
- Avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands
- Clean your contact lenses regularly
- Avoid sharing towels and cosmetics with others
- Use makeup that is not expired
- Remove your makeup before going to bed
- Do not rub your eyes
Conclusion
Eye barley can cause discomfort and irritation to the affected area. However, it is usually not a serious condition and can be treated at home using warm compresses and over-the-counter medications.
If the infection is severe or does not improve, seek medical attention. It is also important to practice good hygiene habits and take measures to prevent its occurrence.
