Is bloodletting therapy at the tip of the ear effective for hordeolum?
Nov 18, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Whether the ear-tip bloodletting therapy for styes is effective depends on the stage of the condition. When performed properly during the early stage—characterized by mild redness and swelling without pus formation—it may provide auxiliary relief. However, once pus has formed or symptoms become severe, this therapy is ineffective and targeted medical treatment is required. Daily eye care is essential: keep the eye area clean and avoid rubbing eyes with dirty hands. In the early stage, applying a warm towel compress may help reduce inflammation, along with maintaining a light diet.
Whether the ear tip bloodletting therapy for styes is effective depends on the stage of the condition. It may have an auxiliary relieving effect when performed properly during the early stage with mild redness and swelling before abscess formation; however, it is ineffective once pus has formed or symptoms become severe, and targeted treatments are then required. Detailed analysis is as follows:
In the early stage of a stye, when there is only mild eyelid swelling and tenderness without visible pus formation, ear tip bloodletting therapy can serve as an adjunctive treatment. After proper disinfection, a professional practitioner may perform a small needle prick at the ear tip to release a few drops of blood, which helps improve local circulation of qi and blood, promote heat dissipation, reduce inflammation, and alleviate symptoms such as redness and pain. However, this procedure must be performed by trained personnel to avoid infection or worsening discomfort due to improper technique.
When the stye progresses to the suppurative stage—with a clearly visible pus head, intensified pain, or skin breakdown on the eyelid—ear tip bloodletting therapy cannot eliminate the infection focus. At this point, an abscess has already formed and requires professional incision and drainage to remove the pus. Using bloodletting therapy blindly may delay appropriate treatment and even lead to spreading of the infection.
For daily care, maintain good eye hygiene and keep the area around the eyes clean; avoid rubbing the eyes with dirty hands. In the early stages, warm compresses with a clean towel may help reduce inflammation. Maintain a light diet and minimize consumption of spicy or irritating foods.
