What Is a Hordeolum (麥粒腫)?

When an “eye needle” appears, known in Hong Kong as “眼挑針” and medically termed a Hordeolum (麥粒腫), it is a common eye infection typically occurring on the eyelid. It is usually caused by *Staphylococcus aureus* (金黃色葡萄球菌) and develops when the oil glands in the eyelid become infected or blocked. A Hordeolum is typically painful, red, swollen, and filled with pus. It can appear on the upper or lower eyelid and may affect one or both eyes. Chalazia are common and can occur across all age groups, though they are more prevalent in children and young adults.

Causes and Risk Factors of Hordeolum

A Hordeolum may be triggered by the following factors:

• Poor hygiene habits
• Stress
• Hormonal changes
• Certain medical conditions (e.g., diabetes)

People who wear contact lenses or have a history of chalazia are also more prone to developing them.

Symptoms of Hordeolum

Symptoms of a Hordeolum may include:

• A red, painful lump on the eyelid
• Swelling
• Tenderness
• Sensitivity to light

In some cases, the Hordeolum may rupture and release pus, which can relieve pain and pressure.

Treatment of Hordeolum

If you suspect you have a Hordeolum, it’s important to consult an eye doctor for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. In most cases, a Hordeolum will resolve on its own within a few days to a week. However, several treatment methods can help alleviate pain and speed up the healing process:

• Warm Compress: Apply a warm, damp towel to the affected eye for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day. The heat can soften the Hordeolum and promote pus drainage.
• Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Medications such as ibuprofen (布洛芬) or Voltaren (扶他林) can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with the Hordeolum.
• Antibiotics: In some cases, a doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat the bacterial infection causing the Hordeolum.
• Surgical Drainage: In rare instances, a Hordeolum may not resolve on its own or may develop into a more severe infection. If this occurs, surgical drainage may be necessary to remove the pus and prevent further complications.

Prevention of Hordeolum

To prevent chalazia, it’s important to:

• Maintain good hygiene habits
• Avoid touching your eyes with dirty hands
• Avoid sharing personal items such as towels, washcloths, and cosmetics