Many people have eyelid swelling at some point in their life. But this does not require any treatment since the swelling will settle down on its own. You can always apply warm compression for reducing the inflammation or take antihistamines. However you should never squeeze your eyes which may worsen the swelling.
Causes :
Several factors are responsible for causing swelling on the eyelids.
Allergy :
It can be caused due to allergic reactions by changing eyelid polishes or other cosmetics like hair spray or makeup. Allergy can also occur from pet animals. Sometimes eyelid swelling is caused due to abnormal reaction of immune system. If the eyes are left with allergen, automatic defense system of the eyes secretes histamines for protecting it which would make the eyelids to swell.
Blepharitis :
Blepharitis is a condition of eyelid inflammation which causes redness and irritation on the eyes. Your will have burning sensation or gritting feeling on the eyes when infected with blepharitis. Some people will feel as though sand is deposited inside the eyes during this situation which will cause swelling of eyelids.
Conjunctivitis :
This is caused due to bacteria or virus and sometimes due to potential allergens like dust, smoke. Even changing your contact lenses and eye drops can cause conjunctivitis leading to redness and swelling of eyelids. Stye is an eye infection caused by bacteria on the sebaceous glands forming cysts inside the eyes. This would also cause eyelid swelling and redness.
Chalazion :
When the oil glands of the eyes are blocked for some reason, it may cause swelling of eyelids with redness and itchiness. When the subcutaneous glands or tissues get inflamed (cellulitis) it may cause eye irritation and eyelid swelling. Some disease like diabetes or sinusitis can also cause swelling of eyelids and redness. Eyelid swelling and inflammation of retina can occur due to herpes infection.
Sometimes presence of foreign particles inside the eyes can cause this situation. Eye-injury or trauma to the eyes during an accident can cause swelling of eyelids. Even bite of an insect can cause inflammation of eyelids.
Grave’s Disease :
This is caused due to thyroid problem which can affect your eyelids. It causes bulging of eyes and inflammation of eyelids. In rare cases, it will affect the eye movements causing double vision.
Most of the causes of swollen eyelids are not that serious to rush for treatment, but you can consult your doctor if swelling does not subside within a day or two.
Symptoms :
When the eyelids become swollen there may be symptoms of eye irritation, redness and watery eyes. Excess of water may be discharged from the eyes and because of this you may have trouble vision. For some people there may be dryness of eyes and flaking. There may be gritting feeling or irritation on the eyes with pain. The discomfort and pain is more particular if the root cause is infection. The eyes become puffy and swollen which is natural response to infection or allergy.
Treatment :
Antihistamines are very effective for reducing eyelid swelling. You can apply eye drops that contain antihistamines 3-4 times a day. You will be prescribed lubricating medicines that will produce tears from your eyes to reduce pain and inflammation. In case of infection or allergy you can consult your eye doctor to get prescription eye-drops to kill bacteria or virus.
Pictures of Eyelid Swelling :
Images, Pics, Pictures and Photos of Eyelid Swelling
Home Remedies :
Applying cold compress on your eyes will provide relief from irritation and swelling. Dip a soft cloth in ice water and gently press this over your eyes. Repeat this process 4-5 times a day which will gradually reduce inflammation.
Wrap a piece of ice-cube on a towel and gently keep this on the swollen eyelids. Putting the ice directly on the eyes may cause severe ice burn or damage to the tissues.
Cucumber is an excellent remedy for eyelid inflammation. Cup a slice of cucumber and leave on the swollen eyelids for few minutes. It contains ascorbic acid which reduces swelling and irritation.
You need to reduce salt consumption if you have diabetes or hypertension. Some people use tea bags for reducing swelling of eyelids. Don’t forget to remove your makeup before you go to sleep since certain chemicals present in the eyelid cosmetic can cause irritation and swelling.
Always remove contact lenses before you put eye-drops or any other home remedy on your eyes. Avoid rubbing of eyes which may increase the pain and discomfort.