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What happens if a stye is left untreated?

Nov 19, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Untreated hordeolum may lead to the spread of inflammation, formation of eyelid abscesses, corneal infections, ocular scarring, and vision impairment. If the inflammation continues to progress, the condition may worsen and even cause systemic discomfort. If symptoms such as spreading redness and swelling, increasing pain, or blurred vision occur, prompt medical attention is recommended. When the infection is not controlled, the inflammation may extend to the surrounding periorbital tissues.

If left untreated, a stye may lead to the spread of inflammation, eyelid abscess formation, corneal infection, permanent eye scarring, and vision impairment. As the inflammation progresses, symptoms can worsen and even cause systemic discomfort. Seek medical attention promptly if you notice spreading redness and swelling, increasing pain, or blurred vision.

1. Spread of inflammation: When the infection is not controlled, inflammation can spread to surrounding ocular tissues, involving the skin around the eyelid and the eye socket, causing extensive redness, swelling, and pain, thereby increasing physical discomfort.

2. Eyelid abscess formation: Pus accumulation at the infected site without proper drainage may gradually form a localized abscess. This causes severe pain upon touch and may rupture spontaneously, leading to secondary infections.

3. Corneal infection: When a stye is located close to the cornea, the inflammation may spread to the cornea, causing keratitis, which results in eye pain, photophobia (light sensitivity), and excessive tearing, negatively affecting eye health.

4. Permanent eye scarring: Poor healing after an abscess ruptures or tissue damage from prolonged inflammation may result in permanent scarring, affecting the appearance of the eye.

5. Vision impairment: Severe inflammation or scar tissue pulling on the eyelid may cause eyelid deformity or ectropion (outward turning of the eyelid margin). Additionally, involvement of the cornea may indirectly reduce visual clarity and degrade overall visual quality.

Maintain good eye hygiene in daily life: avoid rubbing your eyes with hands, keep the area around the eyes clean and dry, use your eyes reasonably to prevent fatigue, limit spicy and irritating foods in your diet, and strengthen your immune system to prevent eye infections.

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