Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.
1
Is any of this happening now?
Call 911
Seek emergency care for reduced vision, double vision, a bulging eye, severe headache, vomiting, confusion, or pain or difficulty when moving the eye.
These are not typical features of a simple hordeolum and need rapid assessment.
Other emergency signs, for anyone
Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
2
Is any of this happening?
Be seen today
Seek urgent same-day medical care if redness or swelling spreads across the eyelid or into the cheek, or if you develop fever or feel generally unwell.
These symptoms may suggest cellulitis and can require antibiotics like amoxicillin or doxycycline .
3
Does any of this apply?
Book an appointment
Arrange routine medical or eye-care advice if:
The lump is not beginning to improve after several days of warm compresses
It remains after a few weeks
Pain or swelling is getting worse
The eyelid is swollen shut
Hordeola keep returning
A lump repeatedly develops in the same place
You have diabetes or a weakened immune system and symptoms are worsening
Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Hordeolum. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.