Have you ever woken up with a swollen eyelid? This unpleasant surprise can be quite uncomfortable! Whether it’s one swollen eyelid or both, this condition can be caused by several factors, ranging from infections to allergies. In this article, we help you understand the possible causes of eyelid swelling and discover solutions to relieve it quickly and effectively. Happy reading!
What you’ll learn in this article:
How to recognize eyelid swelling
A swollen eyelid can present several symptoms resulting from different causes. Here are seven possible signs:
Visible increase in eyelid size:
The eyelid appears more swollen than usual, sometimes to the point of altering your appearance.
Redness:
The skin around the eye may become red, irritated, or warm to the touch.
Heaviness:
Swelling can make the eyelid feel heavier, making it harder to open your eye.
Itching:
Tingling or an urge to rub your eyes may accompany the swelling, especially in cases of allergies.
Difficulty opening the eye:
Significant inflammation can restrict eyelid movement and affect vision.
Discharge and crusting:
Yellowish or whitish discharge may appear, sometimes forming crust upon waking up.
Affected vision:
Severe swelling may cause blurred or obstructed vision.
Tip: Take regular photos to track the swelling’s progression and to better communicate with an eye care professional.
When to see an eye care professional
It is recommended to book an appointment if:
- The swelling lasts more than 48 hours without improvement.
- It is accompanied by severe pain, excessive redness, warmth to the touch, or abnormal discharge.
- Your vision is affected.
- You experience general symptoms like fever or malaise.
An optometrist can examine you and provide an appropriate solution.
Possible causes of eyelid swelling
Several factors can cause a swollen eyelid. Here are some of them:
Conjunctivitis
Inflammation of the conjunctiva, the membrane covering the white of the eye and the inner eyelids, can result from a viral, bacterial infection or an allergic reaction. It is often accompanied by redness, itching, and excessive tearing. Red eyes? Learn more in this article!
Stye
A stye is a bacterial infection located at the edge of the eyelid, usually at the base of the eyelashes. It appears as a small, red, painful bump, similar to a pimple, sometimes with discharge. Find out more about styes here.
Allergies
Allergens such as pollen, dust, animal hair or certain cosmetic products can provoke an inflammatory reaction, leading to rapid swelling and intense itching.
Chalazion
A chalazion is an inflammation of the Meibomian or Zeis glands inside the eyelid. Unlike a stye, it is usually painless but can persist for weeks if left untreated.
Trauma
A blow, scratch, or burn on the eyelid can cause temporary inflammation and swelling, sometimes accompanied by visible bruising.
Other possible causes
Less common conditions, such as blepharitis (chronic eyelid inflammation), ocular herpes, or systemic diseases like kidney or thyroid disorders, can also cause eyelid swelling.
Solutions for eyelid swelling
Several solutions can help relieve a swollen eyelid, depending on the underlying cause. Choosing one solution is good, but combining multiple approaches is even better! Remember: always follow the recommendations of eye care professionals regarding treatments.
Warm or cold compresses
Applying warm compresses helps drain blocked glands, especially in cases of chalazion or stye. Conversely, cold compresses reduce inflammation and soothe allergies. Adjust the water temperature to your needs!
Eyelid hygiene
Daily cleansing of the eyelids with a cotton pad soaked in warm water or a suitable ophthalmic solution can prevent infections and reduce oil buildup around the eyelashes. Psst! Eyelid hygiene is important, swelling or not!
Avoid irritants
Temporarily stopping makeup use, contact lens wear, or exposure to allergens can help reduce inflammation and speed up recovery.
Ointments or eye drops
Depending on the cause of the swelling, antihistamine eye drops, anti-inflammatory medication, or antibiotics may be prescribed to relieve symptoms and treat infections or allergies.
Diet and hydration
Did you know that a balanced diet contributes to eye health? A diet rich in omega-3s and proper hydration can help prevent certain chronic eye inflammations. Learn more about eye-healthy nutrition.
Medical consultation
If symptoms persist or worsen, a consultation is necessary to determine the exact cause of the swelling and prevent complications.
Other solutions
In some cases, more specific treatments may be recommended, such as gentle eyelid massages to improve circulation or targeted medical treatments for underlying conditions.
Book an appointment with a New Look professional
If your swollen eyelid persists, book an appointment with an optometrist at New Look. You’ll receive a comprehensive evaluation and personalized recommendations, plus the opportunity to ask all your questions about your eye health! Want more tips? Check out all our general advice on eye care in our article.
