Swollen eyelids are a temporary problem and may go away within a day. They may or may not be painful, but they are definitely annoying. While there can be multiple reasons for swollen eyelids, the swelling is merely the symptom. Reasons could vary from conjunctivitis to allergies, insect bites, or blocked oil glands. Naturally, swollen eyelid treatment varies depending on the underlying cause. Read on to learn more about the problem, including swollen eyelid causes, recovery time, and tips to help you find a reputable eye specialist in Nagercoil.
Swollen Eyelid Causes
As mentioned earlier, allergies, bug bites, and injuries can all cause swollen eyelids. While sometimes, the only problem you’ll experience is swelling, the eyes could sometimes feel itchy or sore and appear red as well. Some of the common swollen eyelid causes include
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis or infection of the conjunctiva, i.e., the smooth and shiny surface of the eye. Allergies, viruses, or bacteria cause it, although most cases of conjunctivitis are caused by the adenovirus. It starts with one eye and spreads to both and even to people in contact with you. The eyes appear red, gritty and itchy, and sore. The eyelids appear puffy and watery, followed by a sticky coating on the eyelashes and the corner of the eyes.
The doctor may prescribe antibiotic eyedrops to reduce complications and prevent its spread. As for the sticky eyes, you must wipe them using cotton dipped in warm water.
Stye
A stye is a painful and reddish bump on the eyelids caused by an infection in the oil glands at the base of the eyelids or eye sack. The swelling is localised and does not spread to other areas of the eye or the other eye. The stye may appear on the inside or outside of the eyelids. Sometimes, they may even become bumpy.
Applying a warm compress as often as possible helps remove the oil blockage, thereby hastening the healing process. The doctor may also prescribe eye drops. But if the stye does not go away or worsens, the doctor may pierce it and drain the blockage. This is an in-office procedure and must not be attempted at home.
Blepharitis
This is an eye inflammation that makes the eyes feel sore, and the eyelids appear swollen, especially around the edges. This recurring condition may sometimes be caused by other skin conditions like rosacea and dandruff on the face, especially around the eyebrows. Sometimes, the corners of the eyelashes may be crusty, making the eyelids appear sticky.
Treatment includes applying warm compresses and improving your intake of omega-3, avoiding high-fat foods, etc. If home treatments don’t work, consult an eye specialist in Nagercoil for a remedy. The doctor may prescribe antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and immunomodulators.
Infection Of the Eyelid Skin
Eye infections like cellulitis, impetigo, and erysipelas affect different levels of the eyelid skin. During an eye infection, the eyelids appear red and become sore. Common symptoms of eyelid infection include high temperature, nausea, dizziness, and even double vision. Common causes of swollen eyelids include insect bites, injury, lack of sleep, or allergies.
Sometimes, sinuses also lead to puffiness around the eyes. An allergic reaction to chemicals in your shampoo, make-up, or contact lens solution may cause swollen eyelids. Pollen, dander, and organic dust may also cause allergic infections.
Swollen eyelid treatment due to allergic infections can be treated at home by rinsing the eyes with a saline solution. You can also use a cool compress or antihistamines if you have allergies.
Sometimes, the eyelids may become puffy and red when irritated by dust and smoke. Even sunburn could cause the eyelids to swell. If it’s caused by the latter, we suggest sunglasses and sunscreen lotion. In extremely rare cases, eyelid swelling may be caused by an anaphylactic shock, i.e., a1n allergic reaction to food. In such instances, the eyes swell dramatically and are followed by breathing difficulties.
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