Which factor in this stye-related scenario increases the risk of developing a stye?

• A. Squeezing the lump
• B. Good eyelid hygiene reduces risk
• C. Wearing contact lenses
• D. Using antibiotic eye drops

Answer: (C)

Styes happen when bacteria infect the oil glands at the edge of the eyelid, usually due to a blocked or irritated lid margin. Wearing contact lenses increases this risk because lenses can harbor bacteria, irritate the eyelid, and disrupt the tear film, creating conditions that favor infection of the glands. Poor lens hygiene or contaminated lenses heighten the risk even more. Squeezing the lump can push pus and bacteria into surrounding tissue and worsen infection, while good eyelid hygiene helps prevent blockages and lowers bacterial load, and antibiotic eye drops help treat or prevent infection. So, contact lens use is the factor that increases the likelihood of a stye.