The eyes (in fact, usually the eyelids) you guys can stay swollen for various reasons, when they are inflamed, when inflammation occurs in the eye (s), or when there is an excess of fluid (edemas) in the connective tissues around the eyes. This swelling can be painful or not and may affect the eyes, upper eyelids and lower eyelids. The inflammation may be due to:
- Infections: such as conjunctivitis - conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the clear mucosa of the surface of the eye, the conjunctiva. They can be caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi (more rarely) or allergies (see below, "allergies"). They result in swelling of the eyelids, among other symptoms, like watery, red and itchy eyes. In the hordeolum, popularly known as "terçol", a bacterial infection occurs followed by inflammation in the ciliary follicles (outer hordeolum) or glands of Zeiss (internal hordeolum). Swelling in the eyelid is a common occurrence when these glands become blocked. A stye may leave the entire eyelid swollen, making it sensitive to touch as well.
- Blepharitis: is an inflammation, infectious or not, of the eyelids, usually caused by the excessive production of a lipid layer generated by a gland found in the eyelid. Blepharitis is characterized by swollen and painful eyelids and may be accompanied by dandruff, changes in the skin of the eyelid and loss of lashes. It is usually a chronic condition, that is, it is possible to control symptoms with proper treatment and strict hygiene practices, but it is never completely cured;
- Eye lesions: any trauma to the eye area, including a bruise on the eyelid or a trauma caused by plastic surgery (blepharoplasty) can cause inflammation and swelling of the eyes;
- Foreign bodies / irritants: May also cause eye irritation with local swelling. They include household cleaning solvents, personal care products (makeup, moisturizers, shampoo and soap), pool chlorine, sawdust, sparks, small insects, etc .;
- Use of contact lenses: Improper use of contact lenses - poorly sanitized lenses, swimming with contact lenses, or holding the lens in a dirty case - can cause an eye infection and swelling of the eyelids. Wearing worn, damaged or sleeping contact lenses and forgetting to remove lenses can also irritate the eyes and cause swelling;
- Allergies: they occur when the immune system reacts exaggeratedly to a foreign substance, called an allergen, releasing chemicals (the most common, histamine). It is an 'exaggerated' attempt by the body to defend itself against a substance to which it has been sensitized, even if it is innocuous. The blood vessels dilate under the effect of histamine, causing redness and edema (swelling). Pollen, dust, animal hair, some eye drops and solutions for contact lenses are some of the most common eye allergens (read also: What to do in case of an allergic reaction?);
- Renal insufficiency: in this case, fluid retention occurs due to loss of function of the kidneys, which can not remove the liquid from the body with the same efficiency. The swelling in the eyelids can expand all over the face and is most evident in the morning, when waking up.
- More serious health problems: orbital cellulitis, Graves' disease, renal failure or ocular herpes.
- Orbital cellulitis: Rare and severe bacterial infection of the tissues around the eye, resulting in painful swelling of the upper and lower eyelid, and possibly the eyebrow and cheek. Symptoms may also include drooping eyes, reduced vision, fever and pain when the person moves the eyes. Orbital cellulitis is a medical emergency and needs to be treated quickly to prevent optic nerve damage and permanent loss of vision, as well as other serious complications. If the infection is limited to the soft tissue of the eyelids, it is less severe than orbital cellulitis and can often be treated with topical medications without the need for hospitalization.
- Graves Disease: ocular disorder caused by an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), often associated with swelling, swollen eyelids, exophthalmos (bouncing eyes), double vision and drooping eyelids (ptosis).
- Ocular herpes: transmitted by the common herpes simplex virus, ocular herpes is sometimes dubbed "cold sore" and causes inflammation (and sometimes scarring) in the cornea. Symptoms may be similar to those of conjunctivitis, although painful sores on the eyelid may appear, blurred vision due to opacity of the cornea and swelling in the eyes, which obstruct vision. It can range from a mild infection to a more serious form that can lead to corneal transplantation or even loss of vision (learn more on: How to Identify and Treat Ocular Herpes?).
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Swollen Eyes Treatment
Treatment for swollen eyelids depends on your cause. If the eyes are swollen due to allergies, antihistamine drops or oral allergy medications, the use of lubricants may help relieve the symptoms. The ophthalmologist may also prescribe mild steroid drops for more severe allergic reactions.
Other causes such as infections, conjunctivitis or ocular herpes respond well to antibiotics, antiviral eye drops and ocular anti-inflammatory ointments, depending on the disease. Milder swelling stools can be treated at home.
Firstly, the person should avoid rubbing their eyes so as not to further aggravate their condition. In addition, the use of contact lenses should be suspended until the swelling passes.
Applying a cold compress can reduce swelling of the eyelids, as well as cold water compresses on the closed eyelids. However, if the symptoms persist or worsen, or if the individual experiences any eye pain, consult your eye doctor immediately.
In case of swollen eyes, a physician (preferably an ophthalmologist) should be consulted. He / she will be able to evaluate in detail, through anamnesis, physical examination and eventual complementary exams, what his correct diagnosis is, guide him and prescribe the best treatment, case by case.
