Jęczmień na oku: Kompendium wiedzy

A stye on the eye, although a common ailment, still raises many questions. What is it? What are its causes? What are the symptoms and how to treat it? We will answer these and many other questions in this article, which is a comprehensive compendium of knowledge about barley.

What is barley on the eye?

Barley, expertly known as hordeolum, is an acute bacterial infection of the sebaceous or sweat glands located on the eyelid margin. It manifests as a painful, reddened nodule that may contain purulent discharge.

Causes of barley formation

The main cause of barley is bacterial infection, most often caused by staphylococci. Infection usually occurs as a result of:

• Inadequate eyelid hygiene can lead to the formation of a stye on the eyelid. Inaccurate removal of make-up, touching the eyes with dirty hands promote the growth of bacteria.
• Disorders of the sebaceous glands, including the thyroid gland.: Blocking the gland outlet causes the accumulation of secretions, which creates excellent conditions for the growth of bacteria, which can lead to a disease such as a stye on the eyelid.
• Weakened immunity: People with weakened immunity are more susceptible to infections, including barley.
• Chronic diseases: diabetes, skin diseases or immune system diseases can increase the risk of barley.

Symptoms of barley

The symptoms of barley are distinctive and difficult to confuse with other ailments. They include:

• A painful lump can cause discomfort and require appropriate treatment. It appears on the edge of the eyelid, most often near the eyelashes.
• Redness: The eyelid at the site of the nodule is red and swollen.
• Tenderness: The touch of the nodule is very painful.
• Itching can be a symptom of recurrent styes. In some cases, itching may occur.
• Tearing can be a symptom of the development of a stye: An infected eye can water.
• Foreign body sensation: The patient may feel the sensation of having something in his or her eye.
• Abscess development: As the infection develops, pus may appear in the nodule, which can lead to eye pain.

Types of barley

There are two types of barley:

• External barley: Refers to the sebaceous glands located at the root of the eyelashes.
• Internal barley: Refers to the Meibom’s glands, located inside the eyelid.

Barley diagnostics

The diagnosis of a stye is usually not difficult and is based on a characteristic clinical picture. Doctor Consultation with an ophthalmologist is recommended in case of vision problems., after conducting an interview and ophthalmological examination, he is able to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment of barley

In most cases, a stye disappears on its own within a few days. However, you can speed up healing and relieve symptoms with the right treatment, including home remedies.

Home treatment may include the use of warm compresses and other home remedies.

• Warm compresses: Applying warm compresses to the eyelids helps the abscess mature and makes it easier to empty, which is one of the home remedies to relieve symptoms.
• Eyelid hygiene: Regularly clean the eyelids with a mild baby shampoo or special eyelid hygiene products.
• Avoiding touching the eyes: To prevent the spread of infection, avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands.

Drug treatment:

For more advanced infections, your doctor may prescribe an antibiotic.

• Masses of antibacterial ointments: Reduce inflammation and accelerate healing.
• Eye drops: Soothe symptoms of irritation and reduce swelling.

Surgical treatment:

In the rare event that the stye does not respond to drug treatment, an incision in the abscess may be necessary to relieve the discomfort.

Complications of barley

In most cases, barley does not cause serious complications. However, in some situations it can lead to:

• Meibomas: This is a chronic inflammation of the Meibom’s glands that can develop after under-treated barley.
• Infections of the eye area: In rare cases, the infection can spread to other structures of the eye, including the conjunctiva.
• Keratitis: In the case of frequent recurrences of the stye, the cornea may be damaged and visual acuity may deteriorate.

Barley prevention

To prevent barley from forming, you should:

• Taking care of eyelid hygiene is crucial for the prevention of infections. Eyelids: Cleansing your eyelids regularly, especially before bedtime, is important for prevention.
• Do not touch your eyes with dirty hands: Avoid touching your eyes, especially when you are sick, so as not to recur the infection.
• Boost immunity: A healthy diet, regular physical activity and adequate sleep help strengthen the immune system.
• Visit an ophthalmologist regularly: Eye check-ups allow for early detection and treatment of possible vision problems.

Summary

Barley on the eye, although troublesome, is usually a mild infection that resolves on its own. By using proper treatment and following hygiene rules, healing can be accelerated and complications can be prevented. In case of frequent recurrence of barley, consult an ophthalmologist.

Note:
This article is for informational purposes and is not a substitute for visiting a doctor. If you experience any worrisome symptoms, consult a specialist.