Get Help From Medical Professionals For Serious Issues With Swollen Eyelids
The health of your eyes reflects your overall physical health. When a saline solution, cool compress, anti-inflammatory drugs, or any of the other suggestions above do not reduce puffy or swollen eyelids, or the condition is accompanied by a rash, fever, serious itching, redness, or discharge, you should see a doctor.
Infections and inflammation can lead to damage to your eyes and even cause blindness when untreated. Often, swelling that does not go away indicates an underlying medical condition that requires more intensive treatment.
Why Is My Eyelid Swollen And Drooping
Your eyelid may be swollen because of an infection or blockage of an oil-secreting gland. This condition is called a chalazion. It usually looks like a red pimple-like area along the top or bottom of the eyelid. You may also have a more dangerous diagnosis, called orbital cellulitis, which can occur when an infection of the eye migrates into the eye socket. Pain, eyelid discoloration, and swelling along with fever, the eye bulging out or protruding, and difficulty moving the eye are common with this type of infection.
Questions For Diagnosing The Cause Of Eyelid Swelling
To diagnose the underlying cause of your eyelid swelling, your primary care physician or eye doctor may ask you several questions related to your symptoms and medical history. For example:
- Describe the swelling. When did it start? Is it in one or both eyes?
- Did you have any trauma before the swelling started, such as an injury or bug bite?
- Did you eat any specific foods or come into contact with any unusual substances preceding the swelling?
- Are you experiencing any other eye symptoms, such as a change in vision or discharge from your eye?
- Do you have any other types of symptoms, such as itching, pain, headache, fever, or shortness of breath?
- Have you had any recent eye surgeries or other eye problems?
- Do you have any allergies? Have you had recent exposure to any allergens?
- Do you use ACE inhibitors? These are a type of blood pressure drug sometimes linked to facial and eyelid swelling.
- Provide your full medical history, including medical conditions, surgeries and treatments, family history, and a list of the medications and dietary supplements that you take.
You May Like: Why Is My Allergy Medicine Not Working
Eyelid Trauma And Black Eye
Any direct injury to the eyelid will tend to make it swell and bruise, and the swelling is often very much worse the next day. A black eye can be caused by direct injury to the eyelid, but commonly also results from a blow to the nose or forehead. A blow to the nose often results in black eyes on both sides – and cosmetic surgery to the nose or face can have the same result.
Rare And Unusual Swollen Eyelid Causes
The following are far less common causes of a swollen eyelid, although possible.
- Bacterial infection of the skin near the eye: It can begin as a sinus infection and then spread to the eye socket, causing redness and swelling of the deeper tissues around the eyes.
- Skin cancer of the eyelids: This may first appear as a change in a mole.
This list does not constitute medical advice and may not accurately represent what you have.
Read Also: Can Pollen Allergies Go Away
What Causes Eye Allergies
Eye allergies are a reaction to indoor and outdoor allergens that get into your eyes. Examples of these are pollen, mold spores, dust mites and pet dander. Eye allergies are not contagious. They cannot be spread to another person.
Irritants like dirt, smoke, chemicals, and chlorine can also cause swelling and redness of the eyes. This reaction is not an allergic reaction. Viruses and bacteria can also cause the same irritation of the eyes. This reaction is also not an allergic reaction. Some medications and cosmetics can also cause eye allergy symptoms.
The eyes are an easy target for allergens and irritants because they are exposed and sensitive. The body responds to these allergens by releasing chemicals, including histamines, which produce the inflammation.
Pink eye is something different. It is a viral or bacterial infection of the eye tissue. Its called infectious conjunctivitis. It usually starts in one eye and can spread easily to the other eye within a day or two. This eye condition is easily transmitted from person to person. But it is usually not a serious health risk if diagnosed right away.
Important Considerations To Bear In Mind
Always bear in mind that swollen eyelids might not always be the result of a food allergy. An infection in the lining of the eyelid or conjunctivitis can also cause evident swelling around the eyes. The allergic type is triggered by exposure to airborne allergens and not due to a virus or bacteria. The non-allergic type is considered more serious that can involve a bacteria or virus and requires medical care. Consulting a doctor will ensure that the condition is properly diagnosed.
Recommended Reading: Can Allergies Cause Sore Throat On One Side
How Is A Swollen Eyelid Treated
Eyelid swelling usually resolves on its own within a day or two. Initially, individuals can gently wash the eye and apply a cold or hot compress to it. Getting sufficient rest is usually advised in these cases. Pain can be treated with over-the-counter medications but if the swelling does not resolve, it is advised to approach a doctor for further treatment.
To treat a swollen eyelid, the doctor usually recommends:
What Is The Treatment For Eye Allergies
The first and best option is to avoid contact with substances that trigger your eye allergies. If that is not enough, consider using:
- Saline eye drops to wash away the allergens
- Over-the-counter medicine or eye drops
- Prescription treatments from your doctor
- Allergy shots from your doctor
Eye allergy symptoms may disappear completely when the allergen is removed or after the allergy is treated. Talk to your pharmacist and health care provider about what is best for you.
Recommended Reading: Can You Get A Sinus Infection From Allergies
Food Allergies Causing Swollen Eyelids
A food allergy is a mistake of the immune system, according to Kids Health 12. The immune system protects the body from harmful substances, such as viruses and bacteria. During a food allergy reaction, the immune system mistakes the food as a harmful substance and attempts to fight it off 2. Inflammation in soft tissue is a common symptom of a food allergy 2. The inflammation can affect the sinuses, the lungs and any part of the body made from soft tissue, such as the eyes. Swollen eyelids are more commonly associated with hay fever or allergic conjunctivitis from airborne allergens but can occur from a food allergy 24.
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Can Allergies Cause Dry Eyes
If your eyes feel dry and irritated in the winter months when there are fewer outdoor allergens, then you may have a form of tear dysfunction known as dry eye, or keratoconjunctivitis sicca. This is not an allergic reaction it happens when your eyes either do not make enough tears or the tears they make go away very quickly.
Many people have dry eye, including about one-third of older adults. Its commonly found in people with eye allergies as well. Symptoms are sometimes worse when its cold or windy outside, after you turn on the heat in your home, or if youre in a dry environment. Some medications, including oral antihistamines, sleeping pills and anti-depressants, can cause symptoms.
Also Check: Do Allergies Make Your Voice Hoarse
How Is Allergic Conjunctivitis Treated
Oftentimes with allergy symptoms, the best course of action is to simply avoid whatever triggers an allergic reaction. For instance, if you’re allergic to cats and you know your friend has a cat, suggest a meeting place outside their home so you don’t risk having an allergic reaction to their pet. The same goes for allergic conjunctivitis, Kanwaljit Brar, MD, an allergist at NYU Langone, told Health. “The best approach is to be preventative,” Dr. Brar explained.
Experts advised making an appointment with an allergist if you find that you frequently suffer from allergic conjunctivitis with your eyelids swelling and your eyes watering at seemingly random times, as well as if you have no clue what your allergen is. “If you see an allergist, you can identify what you’re allergic to we can predict when patients’ symptoms will ,” Dr. Brar explained.
From there, an allergist can help you make simple lifestyle changes that eliminate allergic conjunctivitis and other allergy-related issues, Dr. Hajee said. So if your allergist tests you and determines that pollen is likely what’s triggering your symptoms, they can advise you to stay inside during certain times of the day when the pollen count in your region is highest, Dr. Brar said. Through tweaking your routine by going on your outdoor run at a different time when the pollen count is typically lower, for example, your symptoms might lessen without the use of medication.
How Can You Prevent Eyelid Swelling
While you cant fully prevent eyelid swelling, there are things you can do to reduce the likelihood of it occurring. Here are some tips:
- Maintain good hygiene. Always wash your hands before and after touching your eyes. This makes it less likely that irritants, allergens, or bacteria get into your eye that could lead to swelling.
- Wash your face. Never go to sleep with makeup on your eyes, as this can lead to irritation and potential swelling.
- Stay away from irritants. If you have any known allergies, try to steer clear of them as much as possible. Choose products that are fragrance-free and gentle.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes. Regularly rubbing your eyes can lead to irritation and puffy eyes. Try to keep your hands away from your eyes as much as possible.
Read Also: What Are The Side Effects Of Allergy Shots
End Stage Liver Disease
At this point, a persons liver function has deteriorated to such an extent that unless they undergo a liver transplant, their condition will be fatal.
Some doctors may also refer to ESLD as chronic liver failure. The average survival rate of people with ESLD depends on the symptoms and complications that the individual experiences.
People who develop ascites, a buildup of fluid in the abdomen, have a median survival rate of 6 months if it does not respond to treatment.
ESLD also leads to complications, such as hepatic encephalopathy, which affects brain function. In cases where treatment proves ineffective for this condition, the average survival rate is 12 months.
The causes of acute and chronic liver failure differ.
In some cases, the cause of liver failure can be unknown.
Is A Warm Or Cold Compress Better
In some cases, such as after crying or having an allergic reaction, a cool compress wrapped in a cloth may help reduce swelling. Other conditions, such as a chalazion, may benefit from a warm compress.
A swollen eyelid can happen for many reasons, ranging from tiredness to an infection. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or could indicate an infection, the person should seek medical help.
Some eye conditions can lead to severe complications, including vision loss.
If a person is unsure, they should never hesitate to seek medical consultation to protect their health.
Also Check: How Do You Fight Allergies Naturally
Preseptal Or Periorbital Cellulitis
Cellulitis may develop if the infection spreads to the tissue around the eye. The layers of skin around the eye become inflamed, making the eyelids go red and swollen. Doctors treat this type of infection with antibiotics.
While these complications can occur, most cases of a stye will clear with minimal intervention.
Eyelid Swelling In Children
Common causes of eyelid swelling in children are trauma and allergies. However, children can also develop swelling from an eye condition such as pink eye .
Children also experience symptoms like redness, burning sensations, watery eyes, and pain. If a child is constantly rubbing his or her eyes, it may be a sign that the child is suffering from an eye condition of some sort.
As with adults, treatment options for children vary based on the root of the problem. Children can oftentimes be given the same types of treatments that work for adults. Popular treatment options are:
Dont give a child over-the-counter medications to treat eyelid swelling before consulting their healthcare provider, pediatrician, or eye-care specialist.
If a child has a swollen eyelid that is painful and hot to the touch, and is accompanied by a fever, take him or her to the doctor as soon as possible.
Also Check: Does Dry Air Make Allergies Worse
Why Is My Eyelid Swollen In The Morning
Eyelid swelling is most commonly associated with normal, age-related changes to the blood flow in the eye as well as diet, salt consumption, amount of sleep, and circadian rhythm. If you eat a large amount of salt, your body can and will retain fluid. Sometimes this retention takes place in the hands, making it more difficult to squeeze one’s hand, and other times it occurs in the eyelids, causing swelling.
Can Allergies Cause Swollen Eyelids
Yes, allergies can cause swelling of the eyelids. This is often caused by the contact of allergens like dust, pollen, or pet dander within the eye, eyelid, or eyelashes. The swelling can be accompanied by itching, but is not usually painful. It often occurs in conjunction with a red eye which may also be triggered by the same allergen. An over-the-counter allergy medication might help.
Don’t Miss: Can You Take Expired Allergy Pills
Causes Of Eye Swelling On One Side
- Rubbing the Eye. Rubbing from any cause will make the eyelids puffy. Often, it starts from getting an irritant in the eye. Young children often touch their eyes with dirty hands. They also may get food in the eye.
- Insect Bite near the eye. A reaction to the insect’s spit causes swelling. The loose eye tissues swell easily. The most common bite is from a mosquito.
- Contact Dermatitis near the eye. An example is poison ivy.
- Injury near the eye. Can cause a bruise and swelling.
- Sty. A minor infection of an eyelash.
- Dacryocystitis. An infection of the tear sac in the corner of the eye.
- Ethmoid Sinus Infection . This causes swelling and redness of the eyelid. The ethmoid sinus is behind the eye.
- Periorbital Cellulitis . A bacterial infection of the eyelid. Caused by spread from nearby infected wound or insect bite. The eyelid is very red and usually painful to touch.
Treatment How To Cure Home Remedies
Treatment of swollen eyelids depends entirely on the underlying cause. Here are the possible ways on how you can treat eyelid swelling.
Antibiotics
If your eyelids are swollen due to bacterial infection, your doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics. Your healthcare provider may prescribe antibiotic medication either in pill, ointment, or in liquid drops. Usually doctors often prescribe drops when an infection tend to spread beyond the infected eyelid.
Steroid treatment
If the eyelid doesnt have an infection, your doctor may prescribe steroids, eye drops or ointment to reduce inflammation. In case the eyelid is irritating, your doctor will prescribe lubricating eye drops to reduce irritation caused by dry eyes.
Antihistamines for treating eye allergy
Eyelid swelling as a result of allergic reaction can be treated with antihistamines. The first step to treat allergy causing eyelid swelling is stop using make-ups, cosmetics and any other beauty products such as mascara on your eyelids. Take an antihistamine designed to reduce the reaction and reduce the symptoms.
You May Like: How To Help A Child With Seasonal Allergies Naturally
What Causes The Dark Blue
This is called the allergic shiner when theres swelling of tissue and fluid buildup in and around the eyes, blood starts to pool, darkening the skin and creating dark circles. The allergic shiner is also a common sign of environmental allergies to pollen, dust mites or pet dander, and it can also indicate food allergy.
What Causes Allergic Conjunctivitis
Different allergens can cause allergic conjunctivitis, including animal dander, mold, and dust mites, per MedlinePlus. When your eyes are exposed to an allergy-causing substance, this causes your body to release a substance called histamine. When this happens, the blood vessels in your conjunctivaethe membranes that cover the fronts of your eyes and line the inside of your eyelidsbecome swollen.
When you’re experiencing allergic conjunctivitis, it might be difficult to tell which exact part of the eye is swollenand the answer isn’t always the same, Feryal Hajee, MD, an allergist and immunologist at Metropolitan Asthma and Allergy in Little Silver, New Jersey, told Health.
Sometimes, when a person is suffering from allergic conjunctivitis, the actual eyeball is swollen. This should warrant an immediate trip to a medical facility. However, at other times, the eyelid is swollen, which should be treated but doesn’t necessarily warrant a trip to the emergency room, Dr. Hajee said.
Allergic conjunctivitis has been associated with other allergy-related health conditions, Dr. Hajee said, including eczema , asthma, and allergic rhinitis . Dr. Hajee added that allergic conjunctivitis can be worse for patients who also suffer from dry eye syndrome.
Also Check: Can Chest Congestion Be From Allergies
How To Treat Puffy Eyes Caused By Allergies
It is important to note that not all cases of puffy eyes are caused by allergies when seeking treatment, be sure you are treating the appropriate underlying cause. Lack of sleep, aging and diets heavy in salt can all cause swelling in the eye area.
However, when puffiness is caused by allergies, some degree of itching is usually present.
Many allergy sufferers find relief by using OTC products formulated to alleviate the symptoms of allergies in the eye area. Eye drops are a common option and include tear substitutes, antihistamines, and ones that contain mast cell stabilizers.
Tear substitutes help to form a barrier over the eye that protects it from airborne allergens, and helps to flush out potential contact allergens. Antihistamine drops work to reduce swelling and puffiness that have already been initiated by the allergen by blocking histamine receptors. Eye drops that contain mast-cell stabilizers will inhibit mast cells from producing antihistamines, therefore preventing an inflammatory allergic reaction.
Other than eye drops, certain sprays and oral medications can be effective in treating puffy eyes caused by allergies. Studies suggest that liposomal sprays may be as effective as antihistamine eye drops when it comes to alleviating allergy symptoms.
Oral antihistamines may also provide temporary relief from allergy symptoms these medications block the bodys production of histamines and prevent a reaction to the allergen from occurring.
