A stye is an inflammation of the eyelid that leads to pus buildup. It is a reddish lump on the outer area of the eyelid. In most cases, the infection is triggered by a bacteria called staphylococcus. Less likely, the cause is an infection in the clogged gland or follicle.

When touched, it can appear to be very painful and uncomfortable.

Also called hordeolum, a stye can also develop on the inside of the lid. But those that form on the outside or external may turn yellow and release pus. With that being said, internal styes are more intense in terms of pain.

If you apply a warm press against the stye, pus may release more readily, and you can get rid of pain and swelling in the first place. But doing this may also elevate your risk of infection in the surrounding area. Moreover, it is never a good idea to do that as likely you may develop stye in response to this, again in the future. So, diagnosis and treatment are important.