How Do You Spell HORDEOLUM?

Pronunciation: [hˈɔːdɪˌɒləm] (IPA)

Hordeolum is a medical term referring to a pus-filled infection of an eyelash follicle. The spelling of this word can be explained using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as hɔr'diələm. The first syllable is pronounced with an "o" sound, while the second syllable has a short "i" sound. The final syllable has a schwa sound, which is a neutral vowel sound often omitted in pronunciation. Remembering the spelling and pronunciation of medical terms like hordeolum can help healthcare professionals communicate effectively with patients and colleagues.

HORDEOLUM Meaning and Definition

1. Hordeolum, also known as a stye, is a common eye infection characterized by the development of a red, painful, and pus-filled lump on the edge of the eyelid. It is caused by the inflammation and infection of the oil glands in the eyelid, typically as a result of a bacterial infection.

   The condition usually begins with a small pimple-like bump, which gradually becomes larger and more painful. The affected area may also appear swollen and tender to the touch. Hordeolums can occur on either the outside (external hordeolum) or the inside (internal hordeolum) of the eyelid. While external hordeolums tend to resolve themselves within a few days, internal hordeolums may take longer to heal.

   Risk factors for hordeolum development include poor eyelid hygiene, using contaminated makeup or cosmetic products, rubbing or touching the eyes with dirty hands, and the presence of other eye conditions such as blepharitis. People with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or chronic inflammation of the eyelids, may also be more susceptible to developing hordeolums.

   Treatment typically involves warm compresses applied to the affected area several times a day to help alleviate symptoms and facilitate the natural drainage of pus. Good eyelid hygiene is essential, and individuals should avoid squeezing or popping the hordeolum, as it can lead to further infection or scarring. In some cases, topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the infection. Surgical drainage or excision may be necessary for persistent or recurrent hordeolums.

   Overall, while hordeolums can cause discomfort and affect vision temporarily, they are usually harmless and tend to resolve without serious complications.

2. A sty, an inflammation of a sebaceous gland of the eyelid.

   A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.

Common Misspellings for HORDEOLUM

• gordeolum
• bordeolum
• nordeolum
• jordeolum
• uordeolum
• yordeolum
• hirdeolum
• hkrdeolum
• hlrdeolum
• hprdeolum
• h0rdeolum
• h9rdeolum
• hoedeolum
• hoddeolum
• hofdeolum
• hotdeolum
• ho5deolum
• ho4deolum
• horseolum
• horxeolum

Etymology of HORDEOLUM

The word "hordeolum" is derived from Latin. It comes from the Latin word "hordeolus", which means "small grain" or "barley". This name was given to the condition because the inflamed lump of a hordeolum is said to resemble a barley grain.

Plural form of HORDEOLUM is HORDEOLA OR HORDEOLUMS