10 Causes of Eyelid Swelling & Treatment Options

In case of allergic reactions, your eye doctor may prescribe antihistamines, steroids, mast cell stabilizers, or anti-inflammatory drops.

Swollen Eyelid: 9 Common Causes

Troy L. Bedinghaus, OD, board-certified optometric physician, owns Lakewood Family Eye Care in Florida. He is an active member of the American Optometric Association.

Bryan Wolynski, OD, is a board-certified community optometrist who has been in the eye care field for over 30 years. He works in private practice in New York City.

Table of Contents
Table of Contents

Swollen eyelids have many causes. Most are not serious, but they can be caused by medical problems. The swelling may be due to allergies or infections that are easily treated. Graves’ disease, a thyroid-related condition that requires long-term treatment, may also cause a swollen eyelid. And sometimes, a swollen eye can be related to a severe infection that could lead to loss of vision if it’s not treated.

In some cases, a home remedy such as a warm compress may help to resolve the symptoms, but it’s often necessary to see a healthcare provider to rule out any serious problems.

In the U.S., healthcare spending accounts for 17.7% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), or the total value of goods and services produced by the entire nation for the entire year, according to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services.

This article looks at the most common reasons for swollen eyelids. It also offers a few quick tips that may help you care for a swollen eyelid, as well as red flags of more serious medical issues to watch for.

Eye Allergies

The most common cause of eyelid swelling is eye allergies. Eye allergies may cause discomfort, eyelid irritation, and swelling.

Eye allergy symptoms occur when the immune system overreacts to a substance like dust or pollen. Cells in the eyes release histamines and other chemicals to try and protect the eyes. This causes blood vessels inside the eyes to swell, and the eyes become itchy, red, and watery.

Prescription drugs are very effective at soothing eye allergy symptoms. Antihistamines often quickly reduce eyelid swelling that’s caused by allergies.

Eye Styes and Chalazion

A stye is caused by inflammation and infection. It happens when bacteria get into the oil-producing glands in the eyelid. Styes can feel itchy and tender. They usually look like a reddish bump on the eyelid. When a stye first starts, the eye may feel sensitive to light and can look a little bruised.

A chalazion is what happens when one of these glands gets blocked. The gland turns into a hard lump, which may cause redness and swelling of the eyelid.

If you have a stye, try to put a warm, wet compress on it for five to 10 minutes a few times a day. This often makes the eye feel better, and may also help to open any blocked pores. The stye can then drain out and start to heal.

Pink Eye

Pink eye or conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva. The conjunctiva is a clear membrane that lines the inside of the eyelid and covers the white part of the eye. Pink eye usually is caused by allergies, bacteria, or viruses.

People with conjuctivitis may wake up to find one or both eyes stuck together with mucus. The eyelids may be swollen, and the eyes may be red, itchy, and irritated.

Treatment will depend on the underlying cause of pink eye. Your healthcare provider can help determine whether it’s caused by bacteria, allergies, or a virus. Self-care can begin with either warm or cool compresses to soothe the affected eye.

Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a more serious cause of eyelid swelling, and this condition is a medical emergency that requires prompt treatment. It is a bacterial infection of the lower layers of the skin.

There are two main types;

• Orbital cellulitis is linked with a sinus infection. The infection spreads into the area around the bones that make up the eye socket. People with orbital cellulitis may have a bulging eye, and pain when moving their eyes back and forth.
• Preseptal cellulitis is an infection of the eyelid and/or surrounding skin. People often have red eyes, along with pain due to swelling. In most cases, it will affect just one eye.

One study of 80 people with eye-related complications of sinusitis found more than half (52.9%) were caused by orbital cellulitis while 29.4% were due to preseptal cellulitis. Treatment included antimicrobial drugs.

COVID-19

A condition called endophthalmitis , a type of eye inflammation that can lead to swollen eyelids, has been comparatively rare in the past. It is usually associated with infection, especially after surgery, or with eye trauma.

But since the COVID-19 pandemic, there’s been a rise in endophthalmitis cases. Complications of endophthalmitis include a loss of vision. Treatment includes antifungal and systemic antimicrobial therapies.

While you may have a less serious case of swollen eyes as a symptom of COVID, early detection and treatment are important in order to avoid the most serious impacts.

Eczema

Eyelid eczema is common in people living with the skin condition who experience dry, itchy skin symptoms on the face. Because eczema can affect any area of skin, it also can affect the eyelid.

Similar conditions, including contact allergies, can affect the eyelid, too. Cosmetics, including nail polish, can cause an allergic reaction that leads to a swollen eyelid. Careful handwashing can help prevent a reaction to contact lens solutions and other products used around the eyes.

Medications called topical calcineurin inhibitors (TCIs) or, in some cases, steroids may be used to treat eyelid eczema.

Graves’ Disease

People with Graves’ disease or other thyroid problems often develop eyelid swelling. Graves’ disease can cause the eyes to bulge. Although it can affect one eye more than the other, it usually involves both eyes.

Sometimes Graves’ disease can limit eye motion or cause double vision. Any type of hypothyroidism, or low levels of thyroid hormones, can cause both eyes to seem swollen or puffy.

Your healthcare provider may prescribe steroids, like prednisone, or Tepezza (teprotumumab) to help treat your swelling. Some cases may be treated with radiation to reduce swelling in the eyes’ muscles and tissues.

Herpes Infection

It is not uncommon for herpes to become an eye disease. The herpes virus can infect the cornea, causing inflammation. This is the clear dome that covers the front part of your eye.

Eye herpes, also called ocular herpes, can cause painful sores on the eyelid or the eye surface itself. The cornea is affected as well as the eyelid.

Antiviral medications are commonly used to treat eye herpes.

Symptoms of eye herpes often seem the same as symptoms of pink eye.

Shingles

Shingles, also called herpes zoster, is caused by a viral infection related to chickenpox. A shingles rash can affect the face and eye, with swollen eyelids as a symptom. The ophthalmic (eye) form of shingles can lead to serious complications, including vision loss in rare cases.

People who are older, or who have weakened immune systems because of chemotherapy treatment, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and other causes, may be more at risk of a shingles infection that affects the eye. Early detection and treatment is important to prevent complications.

Antiviral medications and steroid eye drops may be prescribed to treat a shingles-related infection.

The herpes virus also can affect the eye, but it is not the same virus that causes shingles.

When to Call a Healthcare Provider

In many cases, a swollen eyelid will resolve in a few days with home care. If the eye continues to be painful or your symptoms get worse, be sure to contact your healthcare provider. It’s possible that you may be referred to an eye specialist, depending on the cause.

Some symptoms may point to a more serious condition. You should contact a healthcare provider right away if you experience:

• A swollen eyelid that is red and feels hot
• A blistered eyelid
• Changes in your vision
• A sudden eyelid droop
• Eye pain

Summary

It could be normal for eyes to look a little swollen when you wake up in the morning, but severe eye swelling is not. The most common causes of new eyelid swelling include allergies, pink eye, and styes, but skin infections, thyroid disease, and herpes are other possible causes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are my eyelids puffy in the morning?

Waking up with puffy eyelids—known as eyelid edema—occurs because of fluid retention. During sleep, the body’s heart rate and blood pressure slow down. As a result, less blood circulates, which can lead to eyelid edema in the morning. It resolves quickly once you are awake.

What causes under-eye swelling?

• Age
• Allergies
• Fluid retention
• Heredity
• Lack of sleep
• Smoking

Other causes of under-eye swelling include cellulitis, conjunctivitis, and herpes infection of the eye.

How do you treat a swollen eyelid?

It depends on the cause. A cool eye compress can help to reduce eyelid edema. A warm compress can help eyelid swelling from a stye or chalazion. If allergies are causing eyelid swelling, antihistamines like Benadryl or eye drops can help to reduce swelling.

Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

1. Azari AA, Barney NP. Conjunctivitis: a systematic review of diagnosis and treatment.JAMA. 2013;310(16):1721-9. doi:10.1001/jama.2013.280318
2. Diouf MS, Tall A, Ndiaye C, Thiam A, Deguenonvo R, Ndiaye M. Complications of sinusitis: An 80-case series from the ENT and neurosurgery departments of the Fann university hospital center of Dakar, Senegal. Eur Ann Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Dis. 2020 Dec;137(6):473-476. doi:10.1016/j.anorl.2020.03.014.
3. Khatwani PR, Goel NP, Trivedi KY, Aggarwal SV. Unveiling endophthalmitis post COVID-19 – A case series. Indian J Ophthalmol. 2021 Oct;69(10):2869-2871. doi:10.4103/ijo.IJO_1616_21.
4. National Eczema Society. Eczema Around the Eyes.
5. National Eye Institute. Graves’ eye disease.
6. Iancu GM, Stănilă DM, Cipăian RC, Rotaru M. Ophthalmic herpes zoster with severe complications in an immunocompromised patient: A case report and review of the literature. Exp Ther Med. 2022 Mar;23(3):214. doi:10.3892/etm.2022.11138.
7. National Health Service. Eyelid problems.
8. American Academy of Ophthalmology. Bags under the eyes.

By Troy Bedinghaus, OD
Troy L. Bedinghaus, OD, board-certified optometric physician, owns Lakewood Family Eye Care in Florida. He is an active member of the American Optometric Association.

10 Causes of Eyelid Swelling & Treatment Options

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In this article

Overview: Eyelid Swelling

Eyelid swelling occurs when the area around your eyes fills up with fluid. This condition is also known as “puffy eyes.”

The eyelids may swell due to a localized infection, trauma, or any disease (Especially eye diseases) that encourages fluid retention.

Eyelid swellings can occur in one or both eyes.

Other Symptoms That May Occur With Eyelid Swelling

Minor symptoms:

• Irritation in the eyes in the form of an itchy or scratchy sensation
• Sensitivity to light
• Reddening of eyelids
• Eye discharge
• Eyelid dryness
• Excess tearing
• Obstructed vision due to swollen eyelid
• Redness of the eyes
• Scaly or flaking skin around the eye

Moderate symptoms:

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Sneezing/runny nose
• Headache
• High blood pressure
• Facial pain and swelling
• Anxiety
• Difficulty concentrating

Serious symptoms:

• High fever
• Acute vision loss
• Severe headache
• Bulging eyes accompanied by fever and pain
• Painful eye movement
• Swollen tongue
• Stiff neck
• Itchy throat or mouth
• General edema (swelling)
• Difficulty breathing

10 Causes of Swollen Eyelids

There are many reasons why your eyelids may be swollen. They include the following:

1. Eye Allergies

Seasonal allergies, such as hay fever, as well as allergic responses to foods, medications, and insect bites, can all cause eyelid swelling. 1

If one of your eyelids is inflamed, red, and itchy, it is most likely due to an allergic response to something in your eye (e.g.,animal dander, pollen, or dust).

Symptoms include:

• Pink or red eyes
• Eye pain in one or both eyes
• Puffy eyelid
• Itchiness in the eyes

Complications:

• Extreme pain in the eyes
• Extreme sensitivity to light
• Vision issues
• Super red eyes

Treatment options:

• Antihistamines to reduce symptoms such as itchy eyes, sneezing, or sinus pressure
• Rinsing eyes with sterile saline solution
• Using artificial tears to soothe itching and help flush allergens out of the eye
• Using allergy eye drops to relieve itching
• In case of severe swelling of the face, lips, and tongue, seek immediate medical attention or call 911

2. Conjunctivitis (pink eye)

Conjunctivitis is an infection of the conjunctiva (the thin tissue that lines your eyelids and covers the white of your eye). Most cases are related to adenovirus, which also causes cold symptoms and pneumonia.

Allergic reactions can also cause conjunctivitis. The condition can affect one or both eyes.

Symptoms include:

• Swelling
• Redness
• Itching in the eyes
• Watery eyes due to excess tearing
• Eye discharge (may be watery or mucous depending on the cause)

Complications:

• Punctate keratitis (death of cells in the cornea)
• conjunctival scarring
• severe dry eyes
• corneal ulceration
• chronic infection

Treatment options:

Infectious viral conjunctivitis is very contagious and requires professional medical attention.

Pink eye therapy is often aimed at symptom alleviation. Your doctor may advise you to use artificial tears, wipe your eyes with a wet cloth, and apply cold or warm compresses multiple times each day. 2

In case of allergic reactions, your eye doctor may prescribe antihistamines, steroids, mast cell stabilizers, or anti-inflammatory drops.

3. Herpes Infection (Ocular herpes)

Eye herpes, sometimes termed ocular herpes, may produce painful sores on the eyelid or the eye surface itself. Both the cornea and the eyelid may be affected.

Symptoms include:

• Eyelids stuck together with mucus in the morning
• Swollen eyelids
• Red, itchy, and irritated eyelids
• Eye pain
• Tearing
• Reduced vision

Complications:

• Damage or scarring of the cornea
• Risk of secondary infections such as bacterial infections
• Eye inflammation
• Increase in eye pressure

Treatment options:

• Oral antiviral medications
• Antiviral ointments (to apply on the eyelids)
• Antiviral eye drops
• Antibiotic eye drops (to prevent bacterial infection)

4. Cellulitis

Cellulitis is a more severe cause of swelling of the eyelids. It is a bacterial infection of the skin.

When someone comes in with eyelid swelling, there are two major kinds that eye physicians look for: preseptal cellulitis and orbital cellulitis. 3

Preseptal cellulitis is a skin infection that affects the eyelid and/or surrounding skin. People often experience red eyes, as well as pain from swelling. In most cases, it only affects one eye.

Orbital cellulitis is an infection of the tissues around and behind the eye. This condition may be related to sinus infection or can develop from an existing preseptal cellulitis. The infection spreads into the region surrounding the eye sockets.

Symptoms include:

People suffering from orbital cellulitis may experience a bulging eye and pain while shifting their eyes back and forth. Other symptoms include:

• Warm skin
• Eye pain
• Blisters around the affected area
• Fever
• Headache
• Swelling and redness of the skin

Complications:

• Sepsis (entry of bacteria into the blood)
• Necrotizing fasciitis (when the infection spreads to tissues)

Treatment includes antibiotic therapy targeting the bacteria. Symptoms often improve within 24 to 48 hours.

5. Graves’ Disease

Grave’s disease is a thyroid problem that can cause the eyelids to swell or bulge out of the sockets.

According to research, hyperthyroidism (high levels of thyroid hormones) can cause the eyes to swell or seem puffy. 4 This is because the condition affects muscles and tissues around the eye.

Symptoms include:

• Eyes bulging from the eye socket
• Red, irritated eyes
• Double vision or reduced vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Gritty sensation in the eyes
• Pressure or pain in the eyes

Treatment options:

• Using artificial tears or eye drops to minimize irritation
• Use of steroids to reduce swelling
• FDA approved Tepezza, which reduces eye protrusion 5
• Radiation such as Orbital radiotherapy
• Orbital decompression surgery to fix bulging eyes

6. Chalazion

A chalazion is a blocked gland on the inner rim of the upper or lower eyelid. 6 It is usually a painless swelling.

The swelling is typically localized, although it may affect the whole eyelid, obstructing vision.

Rosacea patients stand a higher risk of developing chalazions. This is a chronic condition that causes inflammation of the skin on the face.

Symptoms include:

• Increased tear production
• Irritated eye
• Soft bump below the eyelids
• Swelling around the eyes

Complications:

• Blurry vision
• Persistent eyelid lump
• Loss of eyelashes around the affected area
• Cancer of the eyelids (can be mistaken for a chalazion)

Treatment options:

Most cases of chalazion are treated at home. You can do the following:

• Apply a damp compress several times a day
• Practice good hygiene on the affected area
• Gentle eyelid massages

7. Stye

A stye or hordeolum is a sensitive red lump caused by inflammation of the eyelash follicles. 7

A stye typically has pus in the middle of the enlarged eyelid and is characterized by a feeling of itchiness, pain, and tenderness.

Symptoms include:

• Watery eyes
• Eyes may feel bruised
• Sensitivity to light
• A painful lump that feels better once it pops

Complications:

• If left untreated, a stye can develop into a chalazion

Treatment options:

• Warm compress (apply a warm washcloth on the affected eye)
• Gentle eyelid massage
• Eye drops and other antibiotic ointments
• Eyelid scrubs to get rid of bacteria and dirt

Consult your healthcare professional for more advanced care if your stye lasts longer than a week despite home remedies.

8. Blepharitis

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelash follicles and the skin around the upper and lower eyelid margins. 8 Blepharitis causes the eyelid margins to swell, flake, and scale.

This illness is caused by an overgrowth of bacteria usually present on the eyelids.

According to the National Eye Institute, there are 2 types of blepharitis: 9

• Anterior blepharitis affects the exterior of the eye (the part where eyelashes attach)
• Posterior blepharitis affects the inner edge of the eyelid (the part in contact with the eye), including the oil glands of the eyelid

Symptoms include:

• Crusted eyelid margins
• Dry eyes
• Loss of eyelashes
• Watery eyes
• Itchy and gritty feeling in the eyes
• Eye discharge
• Red or sore eyes
• A build-up of eyelid debris

Complications:

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience the following:

• Sudden vision change
• Vision loss
• Chronic dry eyes
• Corneal abrasion (scarring of the cornea)
• Increased sensitivity to light

Treatment options:

• Antibiotic ointments to suppress bacterial growth
• Topical steroids to reduce swelling
• Good eye hygiene practices such as eyelid scrubs

9. Eye Trauma

Eyelid swelling may be caused by skull fractures, burns, direct impact, foreign objects in the eye, and surgery.

Eye injury should always be examined by a qualified healthcare professional to rule out any potential dangers.

Symptoms include:

• Pain and swelling of the eye
• Visual issues
• Cut, torn, or inflamed eyelids
• Unusual pupil shape
• Reddening of the eyes
• A gritty feeling in the eyes

Treatment options:

• Gentle cold compress
• Eye flushing to remove any chemicals or irritants
• Eye drops to help with healing
• An eye patch to cover the eye while it’s healing

10. Eye cancer

Although rare, eye cancer is associated with swelling of the eyelids.

Eye cancer occurs when there is an abnormal growth of cells in the eyes, resulting in a swelling commonly referred to as a tumor. 10

Symptoms include:

• Blurred vision
• Swollen eyelids
• Bulging of the affected eye
• Partial or total vision loss
• Pain in or around the eye (rare)

Treatment options:

• Radiotherapy
• Chemotherapy
• Surgical removal of the tumor

When Should You Worry About a Swollen Eyelid?

Eyelid swelling usually goes away within 24 to 48 hours.

However, you may need to seek immediate medical attention in some circumstances.

When to See a Doctor

If your eyelid remains swollen for more than 48 hours, it’s time to seek immediate medical attention.

Severe symptoms to watch out for include:

• Sudden vision loss
• Painful eye movements
• Swelling after head trauma
• Anaphylaxis symptoms such as swelling of the tongue, lips, and mouth
• Bulging eyes
• Severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Severe fever (higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit)

A physician or eye doctor will diagnose your condition and prepare you for treatment. If the reason for the swollen eyelid is severe enough, an ophthalmologist referral may be required.

Treatment Options for Swollen Eyelids

You can treat most cases of eyelid swelling at home with easy home treatments such as cold compresses for periodic eye redness and swelling.

Chronic cases should be examined by a doctor immediately.

Common medical treatments for swollen eyes include:

• Allergy treatments (allergy shots and prescription medicines)
• Antibiotic eye drops for bacterial infections
• Antiviral eye drops for viral eye infections such as herpes
• Administration of corticosteroids to ease the inflammation
• Incision and drainage of styes and chalazions
• Surgical removal of foreign objects in the eyelid

Common home remedies for swollen eyelids include the following:

• Clean the skin around your affected eyelids gently using water and baby shampoo, then gently pat the area dry.
• Use artificial tears to rinse and moisten your eyes if you’re experiencing dry eyes
• Apply cool compresses on the affected area
• Rest with your head elevated to drain fluids away from the eyes
• Avoid contact lenses until your swollen eyelids fully recover

Contact a healthcare expert immediately away if your eyelids swell as a result of a serious allergic reaction.

Self-care techniques may still help minimize swelling. An injection of epinephrine at the doctor’s office or emergency room may be required to calm the reaction.

How to Prevent Eyelid Swelling

Eyelid swelling prevention tips include:

• Get examined for allergies. If allergies cause swollen eyelids frequently, understanding what you’re allergic to may help you avoid or limit your exposure to particular allergens.
• Maintain proper eye hygiene. Neglecting your eyes increases the risk of bacterial and viral infections that can cause your eyes to swell.
• Buy beauty products that are hypoallergenic to avoid flare-ups. It’s always recommended doing a patch test on the wrist to check for any potential skin reactions.
• Handle your contacts with care. Contact lenses are good but can be a haven for bacteria if exposed to contaminated surfaces or used for extended periods.
• Attend regular eye checkups. This will help your doctor discover the condition before it worsens.

13 causes and treatments of a swollen eyelid

A swollen eyelid can happen for many reasons. It can indicate an infection or other problem that needs medical attention. Treatment options will depend on the cause.

Possible causes include:

• a stye or chalazion
• an allergy
• an infection, such as pink eye or blepharitis
• a health condition, such as Graves disease or liver failure
• a blocked tear duct

In this article, learn more about these and some other causes of a swollen eyelid, and get some tips on how to treat and prevent each cause.

The following pictures may help identify some causes of a swollen eyelid. Below is more information about 13 different causes.

A stye (hordeolum) is an infection of a gland in the eyelid. It is like a small abscess.

Symptoms affect the rim of the eye, often by the root of an eyelash.

• swelling
• pain
• a feeling of scratchiness
• a red bump like a pimple, usually with a small spot of pus in the middle
• crusting due to discharge

Treatment

A stye often needs no treatment. It will usually resolve on its own in 1–2 weeks.

Here are some tips for managing at home:

• Apply warm compresses for 5–10 minutes, three to four times a day to relieve pain.
• Avoid eye products, including makeup and eye creams, until the stye disappears.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses until the stye goes.
• Use pain relief medication if necessary, such as ibuprofen.
• Never pop a stye as this can spread the infection and damage the eye.

A doctor may prescribe antibiotics.

Prevention

It is not always possible to prevent a stye, but the following tips may help:

• Remove all makeup and wash the face before going to sleep.
• Avoid sharing personal items, such as towels, with someone who has a stye.
• Avoid rubbing or touching the eyes.
• If a person needs to put in contact lenses or touch their eyes, they should wash their hands first.

A chalazion forms a lump in the eyelid. It can look like a stye, but it is not an infection.

It happens when an oil gland in the eyelid gets clogged, and oil accumulates behind the blockage.

It feels like a hard lump. A person may also notice:

• swelling, which may affect a whole eyelid
• redness, in some cases
• a hard lump
• tenderness, in some cases
• blurry vision

A person may have more than one chalazion, known as chalazia, and the bumps can grow quite large. They usually resolve on their own after several days or weeks.

People with blepharitis or rosacea may be more prone to chalazia.

Treatment

• applying warm compresses for 10–15 minutes three to five times a day to relieve discomfort and encourage the chalazion to drain
• using anti-inflammatory eye drops
• having steroid injections, in some cases
• minor surgery may be necessary to drain a chalazion

If the bump does not go away after a few days or there are other signs of an infection, such as a fever, a person should contact an eye doctor.

Prevention

A person cannot always avoid chalazia, but they can try:

• cleansing the eyelids daily with baby shampoo or eyelid cleansing wipes
• taking an omega-3 or flaxseed supplement
• asking a doctor about topical or oral antibiotics if chalazia occur often

An allergic reaction to dust, pollen, and other common allergens can cause eye irritation and swelling.

• swelling
• itching and burning
• redness
• watery eyes
• a stuffy or runny nose
• sneezing

Treatment

Ways of managing symptoms include:

• applying cool compresses to relieve itching and swelling
• taking antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
• using over-the-counter eye drops to reduce dryness and itchiness
• oral prescription medication and eye drops

Prevention

The best way to prevent a reaction is to avoid exposure to known allergens.

People with a seasonal allergy can:

• monitor pollen counts
• wear glasses to prevent contact with pollen
• stay indoors, when possible, when pollen is high
• ask a doctor about allergy shots and other preventive medication

A person with a known allergy should carry an autoinjector in case of a severe reaction. Severe swelling and breathing problems may be signs of anaphylaxis, a life threatening condition that needs emergency medical care.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction that can be life threatening. The symptoms develop suddenly and include:

• hives
• swelling of the face or mouth
• wheezing
• fast, shallow breathing
• a fast heart rate
• clammy skin
• anxiety or confusion
• dizziness
• vomiting
• blue or white lips
• fainting or loss of consciousness

If someone has these symptoms:

1. Check whether they are carrying an epinephrine pen. If they are, follow the instructions on the side of the pen to use it.
2. Dial 911 or the number of the nearest emergency department.
3. Lay the person down from a standing position. If they have vomited, turn them onto their side.
4. Stay with them until the emergency services arrive.

Some people may need more than one epinephrine injection. If the symptoms do not improve in 5–15 minutes, or they come back, use a second pen if the person has one.

A person may have “bags under the eyes” for many reasons, including genetic factors. However, a lack of sleep and fatigue can make them appear more pronounced.

Treatment

Applying a cold compress while sitting upright may help relieve symptoms.

Prevention

The following tips may help prevent puffy eyes after sleeping:

• getting enough sleep
• sleeping with the head slightly raised
• limiting salt intake in the diet
• avoiding drinking liquids before sleeping
• quitting or avoiding smoking

Water retention overnight can also affect the eyelids. It can make them look swollen and puffy in the morning, particularly after not sleeping well.

Peripheral edema happens when the body is unable to remove fluid from parts of the body such as the hands, feet, and eyelids. Periorbital edema is when fluid collects around the eyes.

It can be a sign of many health conditions, such as:

• thyroid problems
• kidney or liver disease
• heart failure
• obstructive sleep apnea
• lymphedema
• the use of some drugs

Anyone who has concerned about fluid retention in the eyelids or elsewhere should seek medical advice.

Treatment

Treatment will depend on the cause but may include diuretics, pills that help the body remove fluid.

Prevention

It is not always possible to prevent fluid retention, but here are some ways of reducing the risk of heart disease and other conditions that can cause it:

• following a varied diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables
• limiting salt intake
• having regular exercise
• seeking medical help if symptoms arise that could indicate a problem
• following a doctor’s advice on treatment

Crying can lead to puffiness around the eyes.

The eyes produce tears:

• to lubricate the cornea
• to wash away irritants, for example, dust or onion fumes
• in response to emotional triggers, such as joy or sadness

If the person produces a lot of tears, the lacrimal drainage system, which usually absorbs them, may be unable to cope. This can lead to puffiness.

Treatment

A cool compress may help soothe discomfort after crying.

Prevention

If a person finds they are crying more than usual or if crying or sadness is affecting their daily life, they may wish to seek medical advice.

Counseling can help manage depression, grief, anxiety, and other emotional factors that can lead to crying.

Makeup and skin care products can cause irritation, swelling, and puffiness in the eyelids for many reasons, for instance, if:

• they contain allergens or irritants
• the person does not remove them before sleeping
• products are not suitable for use around the eyes
• bacteria have developed over time, for example, on mascara

Treatment

Artificial tears can help soothe discomfort, if swelling occurs when using cosmetics.

A person should seek medical advice if symptoms continue or worsen.

Prevention

To prevent inflammation due to cosmetics, a person should:

• take care to avoid contact between makeup and the eyes
• monitor for sensitivity reactions and introduce new products one at a time
• remove all makeup before sleeping
• choose good quality makeup that is fragrance-free
• replace all eye makeup every 3 months
• avoid sharing products with other people

Orbital cellulitis is a serious infection that occurs in the bony eye socket, known as the orbit. The most common cause is a bacterial infection of the nasal and sinus passages, or rhinosinusitis. But, it can result from surgery, an immune problem, and other causes.

• swelling
• redness
• pain, especially with eye movement
• paralysis of the muscles that control the eye

It is essential to seek medical help as soon as symptoms appear. Complications include abscesses, vision loss, and a spread of infection to other areas.

Treatment

A doctor will prescribe antibiotics, possibly for 2–3 weeks or longer.

If an abscess develops and causes severe symptoms, a person may need surgery.

Prevention

People can reduce the risk of severe bacterial infections and their complications by:

• washing their hands regularly
• staying away from other people who have an infection
• seeking help as soon as the symptoms of infection appear, such as a fever

Graves’ disease is an autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland. It can impact the skin, the eyes, and other organs.

Eye symptoms include:

• swollen eyelids
• eye pain
• redness in the conjunctiva
• double vision
• eyelid retraction, where it seems that the eyelids are pulled back

Treatment

Treatment for eye problems related to Graves’ disease will depend on the severity.

• oral steroids
• other medications, such as rituximab, a monoclonal antibody
• artificial tears
• focal radiation therapy for the eye socket
• surgery, in some cases

Prevention

Factors that may increase the risk of Graves’ disease are:

• a family history of the disease
• smoking
• stress
• infection
• exposure to iodine
• having given birth
• receiving highly active antiretroviral therapy, a treatment for some immune conditions

Quitting smoking may help reduce the risk.

There are many types of herpes virus, and some can cause infections in the eye. Ocular herpes simplex can lead to various eye infections with a range of symptoms.

These can affect the eyelids and other parts of the eye and include:

• irritation and redness
• inflammation of the cornea, the outer cover of the eye
• ulcers of the conjunctiva and cornea
• loss of sensation in the cornea

An initial infection often occurs in children under 5 years of age, but the virus remains in the body and symptoms can recur later.

Treatment

A doctor will take an eye swab to check for the herpes virus.

They may prescribe:

• eyedrops containing antibiotics, steroids, or both
• intravenous medication, in some cases
• lubricating eye drops to help manage dry eye
• antiretroviral therapy to prevent recurrences and complications
• surgery, in some cases

Prevention

The herpes simplex virus is very common, and infection is hard to prevent.

Adults can help protect newborns by avoiding kissing them on the mouth.

Some people may need long-term antiretroviral drugs to manage the virus and help prevent a recurrence.

Blepharitis is an inflammation of the margins of the eyelids. It can result from a bacterial or viral infection or exposure to an allergen. Some people experience it only once, but it is usually a long-term condition in which symptoms improve and then flare up again.

Blepharitis can affect the eyelids in the following ways:

• inflammation
• burning
• itching
• crusting
• ulceration, in some cases
• dandruff-like flakes around their eyelashes
• blurred vision
• feeling that something is in the eye
• loss of eyelashes

Treatment

A person should do the following two to four times per day during a flare to keep the eyelids clean:

1. Apply warm, wet compresses to the eyes for 5–10 minutes to soften debris and dilate the oil glands that line the eyelids.
2. Wash the eyelid margins gently with a cotton bud soaked in water with a little baby shampoo.
3. Gently massage the eyelids, making circular movements with a cotton bud or fingertip, to stimulate the oil glands.

A doctor may also recommend:

• antibiotic cream to apply to the eyelid
• topical steroids
• a tea tree oil eyelid scrub
• newer therapies, such as pulsation therapy, which uses heat to help remove debris from the oil glands

Prevention

It is not always possible to avoid blepharitis.

• avoiding triggers that cause or worsen symptoms
• limiting the use of makeup
• regularly carrying out the hygiene steps above to prevent recurrence in people with chronic blepharitis

When a tear duct is blocked, the eye cannot fully drain tears. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, 20% of newborns have a blocked tear duct, but it usually resolves in 4–6 months. In adults, it may stem from an infection, tumor, injury, or other cause.

• inflammation, especially in the inner corner of the eye
• discharge
• crusty eyelashes
• blurred vision
• traces of blood in tears
• a fever
• frequent infections

Treatment

Often, a blocked duct will open without intervention.

For a newborn, a doctor may teach a caregiver how to do a special massage to encourage the duct to open.

If the duct does not open, a brief duct probing procedure may be necessary to restore drainage.

Prevention

It is not possible to prevent a blocked tear duct. However, if symptoms worsen or there are signs of an infection, such as a fever, they should seek medical help.

Conjunctivitis, or pink eye, is an inflammation of the conjunctiva. This is the clear, thin tissue that lines the eyelid and eyeball.

Possible causes include:

• a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection
• an allergic or sensitivity reaction
• exposure to toxins or irritants

A person may notice:

• swollen eyelids
• a pink or red eyeball
• itching
• pain
• discharge

Treatment

Conjunctivitis usually resolves in 1–2 weeks but may take longer. Some people have chronic conjunctivitis, which lasts longer than 4 weeks.

Tips for managing pink eye at home include:

• applying cold compresses to relieve discomfort
• using artificial tears
• keeping the eye clean and free of makeup
• avoiding rubbing or touching the eye
• washing the hands frequently to prevent the spread of the infection

The person should see a doctor if:

• symptoms get worse
• the pain becomes severe
• pink eye does not clear up in 2 weeks

The doctor may prescribe:

• antibiotic drops or ointments, in the case of a bacterial infection
• antiviral therapy, in some cases
• topical antihistamines, if it is due to an allergy or irritant

Prevention

Here are some tips for preventing conjunctivitis and other eye infections:

• avoiding touching the eyes, and washing the hands first if it is necessary
• replacing all eye makeup after 3 months
• avoiding sharing makeup and personal items, such as towels, with other people

Here are some questions people often ask about a swollen eyelid.

When should a person see a doctor for a swollen eyelid?

People should see a doctor if they have a fever or signs of an infection, if there is pain when shifting eye gaze, if symptoms are severe or worsening, if symptoms persist longer than 48-72 hours, or if their vision has changed.

How do you treat a swollen eyelid?

The treatment will depend on the cause. A doctor can advise on a suitable approach.

Is a warm or cold compress better?

In some cases, such as after crying or having an allergic reaction, a cool compress wrapped in a cloth may help reduce swelling. Other conditions, such as a chalazion, may benefit from a warm compress.

A swollen eyelid can happen for many reasons, ranging from tiredness to an infection. If symptoms are severe, persistent, or could indicate an infection, the person should seek medical help.

Some eye conditions can lead to severe complications, including vision loss.

If a person is unsure, they should never hesitate to seek medical consultation to protect their health.

Last medically reviewed on June 21, 2022

• Allergy
• Eye Health / Blindness
• Infectious Diseases / Bacteria / Viruses

How we reviewed this article:

Medical News Today has strict sourcing guidelines and draws only from peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions, and medical journals and associations. We avoid using tertiary references. We link primary sources — including studies, scientific references, and statistics — within each article and also list them in the resources section at the bottom of our articles. You can learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate and current by reading our editorial policy.

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Medically reviewed by Ann Marie Griff, O.D.
Medically reviewed by Ann Marie Griff, O.D.
Medically reviewed by Ann Marie Griff, O.D.
Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT

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© 2004-2023 Healthline Media UK Ltd, Brighton, UK, a Red Ventures Company. All rights reserved. MNT is the registered trade mark of Healthline Media. Any medical information published on this website is not intended as a substitute for informed medical advice and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. See additional information.