Ambulance 912HAP 9252
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Painful red lump in the eyelid

A painful red eyelid lump is usually a stye: an inflamed oil gland near an eyelash. Warm compresses often help. Rapidly spreading redness, fever, pain on moving the eye or reduced vision needs prompt assessment.

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A painful red eyelid lump is usually a stye: an inflamed oil gland near an eyelash. Warm compresses often help. Rapidly spreading redness, fever, pain on moving the eye or reduced vision needs prompt assessment.

  • A localised red, tender and painful lump at the eyelid edge.
  • A yellow or white point near an eyelash when pus lies just beneath the skin.
  • Apply a clean warm, not hot, compress to the closed eyelid for five to ten minutes.
  • Wash your hands before and after touching the eye and use a clean cloth each time.
  • Make an appointment if the lump has not clearly shrunk after two weeks or often recurs.
  • For urgent GP care outside office hours, call HAP 9252. Call Ambulance 912 only for an immediate threat to life.

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Further reading

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