When one finds themselves suffering from red and puffy eyelids, a visit to the primary physician is warranted. These symptoms can result from minor conditions such as allergies, or more severe conditions such as eye trauma, according to the information website All About Vision. While waiting for treatment, or in cases of allergies, some at-home treatments may ease the symptoms.
Avoid Rubbing Eyes
Some infections which can cause red and puffy eyelids are contagious. For this reason, someone with this condition should avoid rubbing their eyes and wash hands often to dispose of any germs on the skin, according to the Community Eye Health Journal. Additionally, linens and towels should not be shared between members of the same household. Rubbing the eyes will also release histamine, which produces itchiness and make the condition worse in many cases.
Cold Compresses
Applying cold compresses to the eyes can help alleviate swollen and reddened eyelids according to All About Vision. Someone suffering from this condition should dampen a washcloth with cold water. This washcloth can then be applied over the closed eyes until the washcloth turns warm.
Eye Drops
Lubricating eye drops which are available for purchase over the counter may help in reducing itchiness and dryness which are sometimes associated with red and puffy eyelids. Eye drops are also available over the counter which contain antihistamines which often help alleviate this condition.
Antihistamines
A physician may prescribe antihistamines to be taken orally in people with red and puffy eyelids if allergies are found to be the culprit. Seasonal allergies and allergies from irritants can cause a myriad of symptoms within the body and can also cause eye redness, swollen eyelids, itchy and watery eyes, and dry eyes according to FamilyDoctor.org, the website of the American Academy of Family Physicians.
Avoiding Irritants
If allergies are identified as the problem causing red and puffy eyelids, it is necessary to avoid irritants which are known to cause them. Pet dander, dust, and colognes are often problems for people with allergies and should be avoided, according to FamilyPhysician.org.
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