Persistent Stye and Oral Antibiotics

[nrank]

My 4 year old developed a stye and I wanted to just watch and wait, but my husband insisted we go to the doctor.  He had it for about 4 days by the time we saw his pediatrician.  The pediatrician said it would probably go away on its own, but recommended oral antibiotics and prescribed Bactrim for 10 days.  He also suggested warm compresses, which we tried but struggled with (it's hard to get a 4 year old to sit still with a washcloth over the eye.)

While on the antibiotics, the stye doubled in size and them appeared to drain some and got a little crusty.  It is now back to its original size, but still looks infected (red and swollen).  My husband wants me to take him back to the doctor, but I would prefer to try the warm compresses again and wait and see (he does not have pain on a regular basis and generally leaves it alone).  I was hesitant about giving oral antibiotics in the first place.  I have seen that many people used topical antibiotics and I am wondering if that would have been better.

I just don't know what to do at this point and would like to hear a second or even third opinion.  I don't want to keep going to the doctor and stuffing down oral antibiotics if a little TLC will do the trick.  If we do go back to the doctor I want to be armed with information and be able to advocate for what is in the best interest of my son.

[nrank]

Thank you for your suggestions, Dr. McGarity.  We started with warm compresses again and I will try your suggestion of the rice sock.  If things don't improve then we will probably go back to the doctor.  Thanks again.

[Timothy D McGarity, M.D.]

Sometimes Azasite topical antibiotic may help. If it's not going away, then have it removed. Also, try this: new (clean) cotton sock, filled with a handful of white rice and tie it closed. Place in microwave for 30 seconds. This heats the rice and emits moisture. Test to make sure not too hot. Place over his eye while he's asleep. Do this nightly for the next week if possible. It can also be injected with a low dose steroid. Difficult for a 4 yo.

Sincerely,
Timothy D. McGarity, Medical Doctor, Ophthalmologist