Eye problems come in a great number. A swollen eyelid is common among people of all ages. It is uncomfortable and itchy, which in turn affects your self-esteem, focus, and productivity. The good news is that there are effective treatments to weigh in mind.
But knowing the cause and symptoms is a good start. While there are different pieces of information online, you have come to the right place! Read on for further details! Are you ready? Take a close look at the following!
Symptoms of Swollen Eyelids
Swollen eyelids are a common symptom of an infection, allergy, or serious problem. But wait, there’s more! The scratchy or itchy sensation is a good example. Light sensitivity is another contributing factor. What else?
- Excess tear production, which leads to watering eyes
- Obstructed vision
- Eyelid redness
- Conjunctiva inflammation and red eyes
- Eyelid flaking or dryness
- Eye discharge
- Pain
What is the Difference between Swollen and Puffy Eyes?
Many patients interchange puffy eyes with swollen eyes. The truth is that they are different. The former is used to refer to the characteristic of swollen eyes from lack of sleep, dark circles, and water retention. The latter, on the other hand, is used to describe an immune response to an injury, infection, or allergy.
Causes of Swollen Eyes
Now that you know that difference between swollen and puffy eyes, let’s understand the causes of inflamed eyelids. From mild to sight-threatening conditions, there’s a variety of reasons why you may have swollen eyes.
Some of them are written below:
- Allergies
Allergies trigger swollen eyelids. Every day, we have a high exposure to pollen, pet dander, dust, and other allergens. Our immune system, however, overreacts to this foreign substance, leading to eyelid inflammation. Contact lens solutions or makeup can also be a headache.
To protect you from allergens, the eyes release chemical mediators, including a histamine. How does it work? It simply causes blood vessels to dilate or swell. From there, mucous membranes start to itch. Then your eyes become watery and red.
- Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis is another factor. It is simply the inflammation of conjunctiva. Bacterial, viral, and allergic types of pink eye can all lead to swollen eyelids. Sometimes, the patient experiences extreme itchiness, watery, and redness.
- Styes
Considered a reddish bump on the edge of an eyelid, styes are a result of Meibomian gland inflammation and bacterial infection. As soon as the oil-producing glands get blocked, it results in swelling.
- Chalazion
Due to a blocked Meibomian gland, a Chalazion mimics a stye. Without a proper treatment, it turns into a hard-sebaceous cyst that develops away from the edge of the eyelid.
- Eye Injuries
Any trauma to the eye can also trigger inflammation. Eyelid contusion or a black eye is the number one problem. After a blepharoplasty and other eyelid surgeries, patients also experience swollen eyes.
Common Treatment to Consider
There are different ways to treat eyelid inflammation. But it is critical to determine the underlying cause of your condition. After a consultation, your ophthalmologist or optometrist may recommend eye drops and other over-the-counter remedies.
For those who develop swollen eyes because of allergies, a specialist may recommend antihistamine eye drops and oral allergy medication. To relieve the symptoms, your physician may suggest a lubricating product. For more serious allergic reactions, a doctor may prescribe mild steroid drops.
For ocular herpes and conjunctivitis, anti-inflammatory or anti-viral ointments are good to go. Eye drops and antibiotics are other excellent alternatives you cannot afford to miss.
There are also home remedies to consider. But be careful. The best solution is to avoid rubbing the affected area to ease the pain.
For patients with photophobia, just wear your photochromic lenses to reduce light sensitivity. It is also smart to use your contact lenses to enjoy optimal relief. Just remove them before bed.
Other impressive solutions are a cold compress and splashes of cold water. After proper and regular use, it reduces the inflammation and brings back your comfort.
When the symptoms continue, don’t hesitate to visit a specialist. While it requires an extra cost, the results are worth the investment. Just choose the one with the right expertise and high-end tools for your safety.
Experts-Recommended Tips to Avoid Swollen Eyelids
Treating swollen eyelids can be costly. The good news is that you can lessen the risks. Here are a few tips recommended by specialists in the industry:
- Undergo a Test to Determine if You Have Allergies
Whether you have been experiencing swollen eyelids or other allergic reactions for months now, call a physician and undergo a variety of tests. Not only will this help you know your condition, but it will also lessen your risks in the long run.
- Hypoallergenic and Fragrance-Free Beauty Products are the Best
Allergic flare-ups are common to people who use makeup that doesn’t match their needs. Yes, it’s enticing to purchase the cheapest solution in the nearest store. But consider your safety before reaching a decision. Plus, be willing to spend more bucks. Although they can cost an arm or a leg in the first place, they are cost-effective over time.
- Look for Preservative-free Eye Drops
Eye drops come in different forms. Some options are rich with safe chemicals, while others are preservative-free. Which is better? Take advantage of the latter solution to inhibit bacterial growth and other serious complications in the future.
- Replace your Contacts on a Regular Basis
Aside from a pair of eyeglasses, contact lenses are comfortable and effective to use. Proper hygiene techniques, however, should be practiced. Replace them according to your doctor’s prescription. Remove them before bed. Or clean them with FDA-approved solutions.
Before, swollen eyelids were difficult to treat. But times have changed today. With the variety of medications on the market, you can relieve the pain and restore your productivity in the workplace.
When looking for the right treatment, direct your attention to a reputable provider for your peace of mind. As they say, “Prevention is better than cure.” Practice proper hygiene today!