Dealing With a Stye in Sao Paulo

A Tourist’s Guide to Medical Care in Sao Paulo

Online Consultations:

Great for minor but urgent issues that don’t need a physical exam, such as stye or related symptoms.

With Doctorsa you can connect with an English-speaking doctor via video call in just a few minutes, get medical advice and, if appropriate, receive an e-prescription that can be used at any pharmacy. No need to worry about office hours or holidays. Clear and upfront pricing: consultations start at $20, so tourists in Sao Paulo needing treatment for stye can access affordable healthcare without surprises. Insurances accepted but not required.

Learn more about stye treatment online.

Hospitals in Sao Paulo

For serious, potentially life-threatening issues that require immediate, specialized treatment, like breathing difficulties, severe bleeding, or head injuries. Non-urgent visits use up resources needed for emergency patients. ERs are for serious, life-threatening issues. Going there for something like stye adds to doctors’ workload and may take time away from those in critical need.

Important: The information provided here about hospitals is for general reference only. We recommend verifying current details, such as contact information, services, and hours of operation, before visiting. Please reach out directly to the hospital or consult their official website for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Hospitals with Emergency Rooms in Sao Paulo

Hospital das Clínicas da Faculdade de Medicina da Universidade de São Paulo (HC FMUSP)
Address: Av. Dr. Enéas Carvalho de Aguiar, 255 – Cerqueira César, São Paulo – SP, 05403-000, Brazil
Access: Walk-in emergencies are accepted 24/7. For critical cases, ambulance services can be called via the national emergency number 192 (SAMU).

Hospital Sírio-Libanês
Address: Rua Dona Adma Jafet, 91 – Bela Vista, São Paulo – SP, 01308-050, Brazil
Access: Emergency room open 24/7 for walk-in patients. Advanced appointments recommended for non-urgent cases. Ambulance services available via 192.

Hospital Beneficência Portuguesa de São Paulo
Address: Rua Maestro Cardim, 769 – Bela Vista, São Paulo – SP, 01323-001, Brazil
Access: Emergency department operates 24/7 accepting walk-ins and ambulance arrivals. For urgent situations, call 192 for emergency medical transport.

Walk-in clinics

Best for minor conditions needing same-day, in-person specialist attention—like X-rays for sprains or cuts that may need stitches, injections, advanced diagnostics, or other invasive procedures.

Pharmacies in São Paulo, Brazil

In São Paulo, pharmacies are commonly referred to as “farmácias” or “drogarias.” They are widely available across the city and often easy to identify by green crosses, red signage, or the words “Farmácia” or “Drogaria” displayed prominently. Many pharmacies operate 24/7, especially in central or hospital-adjacent areas, and they offer a mix of prescription and over-the-counter medications, as well as basic health and personal care products.

Can pharmacists sell antibiotics over the counter in São Paulo?

No, in São Paulo, antibiotics cannot be sold over the counter. Brazilian federal law requires a valid prescription from a licensed physician for the purchase of any antibiotic. Pharmacies are obligated to retain a copy of the prescription for regulatory purposes. This policy is strictly enforced to combat antibiotic resistance and ensure the responsible use of antimicrobial medications.

Emergency Number for São Paulo

The emergency number for the city of São Paulo is 192. This number connects you to the Serviço de Atendimento Móvel de Urgência (SAMU), which provides urgent pre-hospital care and emergency medical assistance throughout the city. When calling, provide clear information about the nature of the emergency, your exact location, and any other relevant details to help responders arrive quickly and prepared.

Please remember, emergency numbers like 192 should only be used for life-threatening situations. For urgent but non-life-threatening health issues, telehealth services such as Doctorsa offer professional medical advice and support more suited to your needs.