Infections that cause inflammation of the eyelids or the conjunctiva (surface) of the eye are also common causes of puffy eyes. Infections may occur in one or both eyes and may be caused by viruses or bacteria. The condition often called pink eye is a contagious form of conjunctivitis caused by a viral infection.
What are puffy eyelids a symptom of?
Swollen eyelids, or swelling around the eyes, is an inflammatory response to allergies, infection or injury . Eyelid swelling can happen with just one eye or both eyes. Eye puffiness is usually related to lack of sleep, age-related sagging of tissue and general water retention.
Can the flu cause swollen eyelids?
Viral sore throat, sinus infection, and influenza are examples of conditions that may cause these symptoms. Upper respiratory conditions may affect the eyes and lead to redness, puffiness, or watering eyes. Keep track of your symptoms.
Why are my eyelids permanently swollen?
The most common cause of eyelid swelling is allergies , either by direct contact with the allergen (such as animal dander entering your eye) or from a systemic allergic reaction (such as a food allergy or hay fever). If one eyelid is swollen, a common cause is a chalazion, an obstructed gland along the rim of an eyelid.
How do you get rid of puffy eyes from being sick?
- Use a saline solution to rinse your eyes, if there’s discharge.
- Use a cool compress over your eyes. This can be a cold washcloth.
- Remove contacts, if you have them.
- Place chilled black tea bags over your eyes. Caffeine helps reduce swelling.
- Elevate your head at night to decrease fluid retention.
How do I reduce eyelid swelling?
- Use a saline solution to rinse your eyes, if there’s discharge.
- Use a cool compress over your eyes. This can be a cold washcloth.
- Remove contacts, if you have them.
- Place chilled black tea bags over your eyes. ...
- Elevate your head at night to decrease fluid retention.
How long does swollen eyelid last?
Eyelid swelling usually goes away on its own within a day or so . If it doesn’t getter better in 24 to 48 hours, see your eye doctor. They’ll ask about your symptoms and look at your eye and eyelid.
What causes fluid retention in eyelids?
With aging, the tissues around your eyes, including some of the muscles supporting your eyelids, weaken. Normal fat that helps support the eyes can then move into the lower eyelids, causing the lids to appear puffy. Fluid also may accumulate in the space below your eyes, adding to the swelling .
Can a stye make your whole eyelid swell?
Infection can cause a small “pus spot” at the tip of a stye (shown here) that looks like a pimple. It can make your eye painful, crusty, scratchy, watery, and more sensitive to light. It may even make your whole eyelid swell .
Should I use heat or ice for swollen eye?
A cool compress or ice pack can help reduce the swelling in general . Avoid rubbing your eyes, and if you wear contacts, remove them immediately. If allergies are the cause, oral and topical antihistamines can be helpful. Warm compresses
How do you get rid of puffy eyelids in the morning?
- Get enough sleep. Logging a good night’s sleep regularly will help you reduce puffy eyes. ...
- Prop yourself up. ...
- Address your allergies. ...
- Drink enough water. ...
- Avoid alcohol. ...
- Pass on the salt. ...
- Eat more potassium. ...
- Use a cool compress.
What helps swelling go down fast?
Applying an ice-pack or cold compress to an injury is the fastest way to deal with immediate swelling. It helps reduce swelling by restricting blood flow to the area and slowing down cellular metabolism. Cold therapy systems and ice baths are other methods you can use to apply cold to the area.
Does Benadryl help with swelling?
A quick-acting allergy medication, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl), can help reduce swelling and itching after an insect bite or sting .
How can I treat an eyelid infection at home?
- Use a warm compress. ...
- Clean your eyelid with mild soap and water. ...
- Use a warm tea bag. ...
- Take OTC pain medication. ...
- Avoid wearing makeup and contact lenses. ...
- Use antibiotic ointments. ...
- Massage the area to promote drainage. ...
- Get medical treatment from your doctor.
Can dehydration cause puffy eyes?
Dehydration can cause the skin around your eyes to look saggy and sunken. Fluid retention — such as from allergies or a salty meal — can produce puffiness.
