Eye Swelling

Eye Swelling – When to Worry

It is important to distinguish between bulging eyes (exophthalmos), which may be caused by overactivity of the thyroid gland, and eye swelling, which is the result of excess fluid that accumulates around the eyelid and the eye area.

What Causes Eye Swelling?

The causes can be varied and range from causes such as lifestyle and age to dangerous infectious processes. Among the common causes are natural aging, heredity, allergies, fatigue, excessive crying or tiredness, as well as infections and inflammations of the eyelids (such as chalazion and blepharitis).

Here are some examples of common causes of eye swelling and their treatment:

Eye Swelling Due to Allergies

Usually seasonal but can appear year-round when an allergen enters the eyes and the immune system responds excessively to the irritation. The allergen can be animal fur, dust mites, plants in the area, molds, or vapors, and they can affect the eyes in all sorts of ways, from swelling, itching, or redness to unusually watery eyes. There may also be a systemic allergic reaction that also manifests as swelling around the eyes (angioedema).

Treatment: Over-the-counter antihistamines can provide relief, as can a cold, wet compress placed on the outer part of the closed eyelids. If the allergies continue to cause eye irritation, you may need to see your ophthalmologist for a prescription to help you cope with the symptoms.

Eye Swelling Due to Strain

Studies have shown that people who use a computer or another digital screen for prolonged periods tend to blink less. This can lead to eye strain in front of the computer, a condition that may cause fatigue and eye swelling.

Treatment: Taking eye drops and wearing computer glasses can help ease the symptoms of eye swelling and excessive tearing for those sensitive to screen work.

Eye Swelling Due to Conjunctivitis

This inflammation, which can be the result of a viral or bacterial infection and more, and can be very contagious, may cause multiple symptoms such as itching, burning, discharge from the eye, swelling, and redness. You should be sure to wash your hands frequently and avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent spreading the infection to others.

Treatment: If within a day or two a wet, cold compress does not relieve the eye swelling, or if there is fever or sharp pain in the eye, you should see your ophthalmologist for diagnosis and treatment.

When to See an Ophthalmologist?

In general, eye swelling is a symptom that usually passes on its own within a short time. However, you should schedule a consultation with your ophthalmologist if:

• The eye swelling does not pass after a day or two.
• You experience severe pain or swelling in the eye area.
• You have pain or symptoms in other areas of your body.

If you are looking for ways to get rid of swollen eyes, it is important to find out the underlying cause of the symptom. In some cases, making a few lifestyle changes can help ease the problem.

A comprehensive eye examination can determine the cause of the swelling or swollen eyes and help treat the problem at an early stage.