Stye Treatment: What to Do in Spain and When to See a Doctor
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Pedro Yelamo Vera, MD
Licensed Physician No. 484814280 · Official Medical College of Bizkaia (Spain)Last reviewed: 2 October 2026
How to treat a stye at home, what to avoid and when to see a doctor in Spain.
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A stye is a red, painful lump on the edge of the eyelid. It is very common and usually clears up on its own, but it helps to know what works, what to avoid, and when to see a doctor while you are in Spain.
Quick Answer
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What is it? | A small infection of a gland in the eyelid. |
| How long does it last? | Usually one to two weeks. |
| What helps? | Warm compresses and gentle eyelid cleaning. |
| Do I need antibiotics? | Usually not. A doctor checks if the infection is spreading. |
| When is it urgent? | The whole eyelid swells, you have a fever, or your vision changes. |
Stye Treatment at Home
- Warm compresses. A clean cloth soaked in warm (not hot) water over the closed eye for 5 to 10 minutes, three or four times a day.
- Hygiene. Wash your hands before touching your eye and clean the lid edge gently.
- Do not squeeze or pop it. This can spread the infection.
- Skip make-up and contact lenses until it heals.
- Pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, if suitable for you.
Stye or Chalazion?
A chalazion is a usually painless lump caused by a blocked gland. It can last for weeks. If a lump has not gone after a month, or keeps coming back, see a doctor.
When to See a Doctor
- No improvement after one to two weeks.
- Redness or swelling spreads across the eyelid or onto the cheek.
- Fever or feeling unwell.
- Severe eye pain, blurred vision or strong light sensitivity: go to an eye emergency department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need antibiotic eye drops?
Most styes do not. If a doctor finds signs of spreading infection, they will decide on treatment. Antibiotic eye drops need a prescription in Spain.
Can a stye be assessed online?
Often yes. A doctor can look at the eyelid by video and advise you, and will tell you if you need an in-person eye examination. See also our page on pink eye in Spain.
Eye bothering you? Book a video consultation with an online doctor in Spain for urgent, non-emergency care. In an emergency, call 112.
Medical Citations & Sources
This content is written and reviewed by a licensed physician with reference to the following official health authorities.
