Swelling under the eye – causes, remedies and when to seek medical attention

Puffiness under the eye, which often appears as a swollen or bulging area, can be a cosmetic concern for many people. However, beyond aesthetics, this symptom can sometimes indicate an underlying health problem. It is important to understand its causes, possible remedies, and when it is time to seek professional medical treatment.

Causes of puffiness under the eye

Allergies : One of the most common causes of swelling under the eyes is allergic reactions. Pollen, dust, pet dander or specific food items can trigger an allergic reaction, leading to fluid accumulation under the eyes.

Infections : Bacterial or viral infections, especially of the sinus or the eye itself, may cause swelling. Conditions like conjunctivitis or sinusitis are known culprits.

Trauma : Physical injury to the eye or the surrounding area, whether from an accident or a surgical procedure, may lead to swelling.

Fluid retention : Factors such as high salt intake, dehydration or hormonal changes can cause the body to retain fluid, which manifests itself in puffiness under the eyes.

Lack of sleep : Not getting enough sleep is a common cause of puffy eyes. Fatigue can cause the skin to sag, making the eyes look puffy.

Age : As we age, the tissues around our eyes weaken, causing the fat that supports the eyes to move to the lower eyelids, creating a puffy appearance.

Medical conditions : Diseases such as kidney disease, thyroid problems or heart disease can lead to fluid retention, including in the area under the eyes.

Specific eye conditions : conditions such as barley in the eye, chalazion or blepharitis may cause local swelling around the eye.

Medicines for swelling under the eye

Cold compress : a simple and effective remedy. Applying a cold compress for 10-15 minutes can reduce the swelling. Make sure the compress is not too cold to avoid frostbite.

Sleep : Make sure you get 7-9 hours of sleep a night. Elevate your head with an extra pillow to prevent fluid build-up.

Reduce salt intake: A diet high in salt can cause water retention. Reducing salt intake can prevent puffiness under the eyes.

Stay hydrated : Drinking enough water helps flush out excess salt and reduces water retention.

Over-the-counter treatments : creams or gels containing ingredients such as caffeine can tighten the skin and reduce swelling. Antihistamines can be helpful for allergy-related swelling.

Tea bags : You can place cooled tea bags, especially those made from green or black tea, over the eyes. The caffeine and antioxidants in tea can reduce swelling and firm the skin.

Cucumber slices : A classic spa remedy, cold cucumber slices can soothe the eyes and reduce swelling due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

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If you notice the following symptoms, it may be time to consult a medical professional:

Persistent swelling : If the swelling doesn't go down after trying home remedies, or if it lasts more than 48 hours, it may indicate a more serious underlying problem.

Pain and redness : If the swelling is accompanied by pain, redness or any discharge, it could be an infection or another serious condition.

Vision problems : Blurred vision, double vision, or vision loss accompanying swelling is a red flag.

Additional symptoms : If you experience other symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain or difficulty swallowing along with the swelling, seek immediate medical attention.

Prevention of swelling under the eye

Preventing puffiness under the eye starts with a healthy lifestyle. Make sure you have a balanced diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep and proper skin care. Avoid known allergens, and if you're prone to allergies, keep antihistamines on hand.

Summary

Puffiness under the eye can be caused by a number of reasons, from simple causes like lack of sleep to more serious conditions like infections. While many home remedies can treat occasional puffy eyes, it's essential to be vigilant and seek medical attention when the condition seems unusual. Understanding your body, its reactions and taking proactive steps can go a long way in maintaining optimal eye health.