Effective Options for Swollen Eye Treatment
A swollen eye is a common condition that can be annoying and uncomfortable.
It could be a symptom of infections, allergies, and diseases. Some of the diseases include Stye, Pink eye, Chalazion, etc.
Generally, mild swelling goes away within 24 to 30 hours.
For faster relief, warm or cold compresses may help, but swollen eye treatment depends on the cause.
Some of the common causes vary from fluid retention to severe infection.
Sometimes severe pain and itching can also occur during inflammation.
In such cases, your doctor may recommend antihistamines or anti-inflammatories for swelling.
Diagnosis
A variety of factors can cause a swollen eye. These include allergies, infections, injuries, or any underlying medical condition.
The swollen eye treatment depends on the different causes of inflammation.
Doctors can prescribe you any treatment only after proper diagnosis.
A physical examination
A doctor will observe the external part of the eye.
Eye inspection consists of the location and color of swelling. It also includes checking whether the swelling is in both eyes or not.
Medical history
Past medical history includes recent eye surgery and any heart, liver, or thyroid disease.
You should tell your doctor about your allergies and exposure to possible allergens.
Lab tests
Imaging lab tests include Retinal photography to know more about any diseases in the eye. Imaging tests are rapid and painless.
Treatment
Swollen eye treatment will depend on the underlying cause.
Some common causes of a swollen eye include an injury, infection, allergies, or a medical condition such as sinusitis or thyroid disease.
Treatment is different for a variety of causes.
Swelling due to injury
If the swelling on the eye is because of an injury, applying a cold compress to the inflammation can reduce swelling.
Some over-the-counter medications are also available to reduce pain and swelling.
Medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and Naproxen can help relieve pain and swelling.
Swelling due to Infections
Infections like Blepharitis, Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye), Shingles, and stye can cause swelling in the eye.
Doctors may prescribe you Antibiotic drops or ointment to help you with swelling.
Some antibiotics for swollen eyes are Natamet 0.05 and Azithral Eye Drops 0.1% (3ml).
Swelling due to allergies
If the swelling is due to allergies, the patient can take antihistamine medication to reduce symptoms. It is also essential to try to avoid the allergen if possible.
Some of the antihistamines are cetirizine, diphenhydramine, or loratadine.
Swelling due to medical condition
If the swelling is due to a medical condition, treatment will depend on the specific situation and may include medication or other therapies.
If the swelling persists or is accompanied by other symptoms such as severe pain, vision changes, or discharge, it is essential to seek medical attention as soon as possible.
Medication
Your doctor may prescribe the following medicine depending on the cause of your eye inflammation.
Antibiotics
There are some Antibiotic ointments available for swollen eyes.
These antibiotics include Azithromycin, Bimatoprost Ophthalmic Solution, and Polysporin as active ingredients.
Antibiotics help in removing bacterial infections and reducing irritation.
In severe cases, oral antibiotics may also be recommended by your doctor.
Some of the antibiotics for swollen eyes are
| Medicine Name | Approx. cost |
| Actavis Bimatoprost 300 mcg | $9.83 |
| Azithral Eye Drops 0.1% (3ml) | $15.50 |
Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs are used to reduce problems that can occur after some eye surgeries.
Some of these medicines are used after eye surgery to get relief from the side effects of surgery, such as inflammation or edema (excessive fluid in the eye).
Doctors may recommend Nevanac Eye Drop 5ml for quick relief from swelling and pain.
Corticosteroids
Some corticosteroids also help in reducing the swelling in the eyes.
These medicines work by stopping the immune system of the body.
Corticosteroids prevent the production of brain Prostaglandins (a chemical messenger) that promote inflammation and swelling.
Thus reducing the swelling of the eye.
Doctors may recommend Lotepred Eye drop of 5 ml steroid for swollen eye treatment.
Artificial Tears
Artificial Tear medication is used to treat irritation in the eyes and dry eyes.
Some Artificial tear medicines, like Eyemist E/D 10ml, contain Glycerine with polysorbates and other ingredients.
It is also available in the form of drops as well as ointment.
For artificial tear drops,
- Use 1 to 2 drops in the swollen eye
- Close your eyes and look down for 1 to 2 minutes
- For gel form, squeeze the tube and place medicine over the eye
- Gently close your eyes and roll your eyeball in every direction
It will help in reducing inflammation and dryness of your eyes.
Over-The-Counter (OTC) drops
You can purchase some eye drops without a prescription as a treatment for swollen eyes.
Some antihistamine drops which are available over the counter are
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
- Brompheniramine (Dimetane)
- Clemastine (Tavist)
Natural remedies
Home remedies can also help in getting relief from swollen eyes.
The treatment method depends on the cause of inflammation of your eye.
Severe cases of swollen eyes can only be treated after a complete examination by an eye doctor.
However, home remedies such as cold compress, warm compress, green tea bag, and many more can treat mild cases of swollen eyes.
Cold and warm compression
Cold and warm compression helps in reducing swelling of your eyes.
Cold compression reduces fluid leakage and helps in relaxing the eyes.
Swollen eyes can effectively reduce using cold compression as it increases the blood flow.
Cold compression can be done using an ice pack or cold water-washed cloth.
Green tea bags
Green tea shows Antibiotic and astringent properties.
It helps in managing many problems, such as burning sensation, swelling, and irritation.
To use tea bags, keep used tea bags inside the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes.
Use cold tea bags on both eyes for 10 to 15 minutes. Repeat this process 2-4 times every day to see effective results.
Rinse your eyes
Rinsing your eyes and applying warm compression after washing can help reduce inflammation.
Rinsing can also help in getting rid of any infection present in the eye.
Avoid frequent touching
You must avoid rubbing and unnecessary contact with your eyes if they are swollen.
Do not wear contact lenses and any makeup if you feel any swelling.
Avoid direct sunlight and get plenty of sleep.
Massage
Massaging eyes gently using clean fingers or washcloths can help treat swollen eyes.
You can do a clockwise rotation on your eyelids to get relief.
Doing this activity twice a day can help relax the eye.
Also Read: To learn about other effective home remedies for swollen eye, read our guide “Swollen Eye Remedies: A Collection of Natural Solutions“.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the swollen eye can be treated with natural and medicinal treatments.
Natural remedies such as compresses and massages can help reduce inflammation and soothe skin.
Over-the-counter medicines such as antihistamines and decongestants can also reduce swelling.
However, it is best to seek medical attention if the swelling is severe, including pain and blurry vision.
The doctor can prescribe stronger medication or any other treatment depending on the cause and severity.
