Key Takeaways
- A stye is a small, uncomfortable bump on the eyelid caused by a blocked gland or bacterial transfer.
- Wearing contacts with a stye can increase irritation and slow healing.
- Wait until all redness, swelling, and discomfort are gone before putting contacts back in.
- Discard any contacts worn during the infection and clean your case before reuse.
- Good hygiene habits can help lower your chances of getting a stye again.
Your eyelid is swollen, tender, and a little red. There’s a small bump forming near the lash line, and now you’re wondering if it’s safe to pop your contacts in. It’s a fair question, especially when you rely on them every day.
You should not wear contact lenses while you have a stye. The lens can rub directly against the bump, potentially making irritation worse and slowing down recovery. Sticking with glasses until the stye clears is the safer move.
What Is a Stye?
A stye is a small, pimple-like bump that forms on the eyelid. It can appear on the outside of the lid near the lash line, or on the inside of the lid. Most styes are tender to the touch and clear up on their own, though they can take a week or two to fully resolve.
Common Causes
Styes often develop when oil glands along the eyelid become blocked, sometimes from leftover makeup or inconsistent lid hygiene. Bacterial transfer is another common factor. Touching your eyes with unwashed hands, reusing a washcloth near your eyes, or sharing cosmetics can all introduce bacteria to the area.
People with certain conditions, like rosacea, blepharitis, or diabetes, may be more prone to them.
Signs You Might Have One
Not sure if what you’re seeing is a stye? Here are some common signs to look for:
- Redness, swelling, or tenderness near the eyelid.
- Watery eyes or sensitivity to light.
- Crusty buildup or pus around the affected area.
Why Contacts Can Make Things Worse
When you have a stye, the last thing your eyelid needs is added friction. A contact lens can rub directly against the bump with every blink, potentially increasing irritation and slowing healing. Taking a break from contacts gives the area space to recover.
What Gets Mistaken for a Stye
A chalazion looks a lot like a stye but tends to stick around longer. It may also need a different treatment approach. If the bump on your eyelid isn’t going away or seems to be growing, an optometrist in Minneapolis can take a closer look and help you figure out what you’re dealing with.
How Long After a Stye Can You Wear Contacts Again?
No single timeline works for everyone. You can return to contacts when the redness, swelling, and discomfort are fully gone. Mild cases may clear in just a few days, while more severe ones take longer. If symptoms persist or worsen, that’s a signal to check in with an eye doctor before reaching for your lenses.
Tips Before You Put Contacts Back In
Before you start wearing contacts again, take a few steps to avoid reinfection:
- Throw away any contacts you wore during the infection.
- Clean your contact lens case thoroughly before using it again.
- Consider switching to daily disposables, which can help lower the risk of reinfection.
How to Prevent Future Styes
A few consistent habits can go a long way in keeping styes from coming back. Here’s where to start:
- Wash your hands before handling contacts or touching your eyes.
- Remove makeup every night and replace eye products every 3 months.
- Clean and disinfect your lenses on a regular schedule.
See an Optometrist in Minneapolis
Most styes heal on their own, but if yours isn’t improving or keeps coming back, it’s worth having an eye doctor take a look. Our team at Perspectives Vision Clinic is here to help you get answers and feel comfortable in your eyes again. Reach out to schedule an appointment with an optometrist in Minneapolis today.
