Is a stye caused by excessive internal heat (fire)?

Jul 15, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Sun Lianqing

Introduction

In general, styes are not caused by "excess internal heat" in the traditional sense, but rather by acute suppurative inflammation of the eyelid glands, primarily due to bacterial infection, with Staphylococcus aureus being a common causative agent. If symptoms of a stye occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow the guidance of a physician for treatment. Additionally, it is important to maintain good lifestyle habits and eye hygiene practices.

Generally, a stye is not caused by "excess internal heat," as understood in traditional terms, but rather by an acute suppurative inflammation of the eyelid glands, primarily caused by bacterial infection, with Staphylococcus aureus infection being common. Detailed explanation is as follows:

There are many meibomian glands and sebaceous glands in the eyelid margin. When the eyes are rubbed with unclean hands, eye makeup residue remains, or eyelid hygiene is poor, bacteria can easily invade these glands, causing infection and resulting in a hard, red, swollen, hot, and painful nodule. "Excess internal heat" may be related to decreased immunity. When the body is fatigued, sleep is insufficient, or the diet is spicy and irritating, immunity decreases, allowing bacteria to more easily invade and trigger a stye. Therefore, "excess internal heat" is an indirect contributing factor, rather than a direct cause.

If symptoms of a stye occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow the doctor's instructions for treatment. At the same time, maintaining good living habits and eye hygiene can help prevent recurrence of styes.

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