Swollen eyelids may affect appearance, but the lids may also feel hot to the touch and painful. The swelling may also cause the eyelid to push against the eye itself, resulting in distorted vision, which often improves as the swelling resolves. Treatments for swollen eyelids vary, depending on the cause of the condition. Contact an eye doctor for an evaluation to determine the cause of the swelling and any treatment necessary.
Allergies
Eye allergies result from a person’s immune system overreacting to pollen or other environmental substances, says The University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center. Though some people experience eye watering and mild itching in the eye, other people may additional symptoms, such as eyelid swelling. Swelling often reduces with the use of allergy eye drops or oral allergy medications. Some people find that holding cool compresses gently against the eyelid offers some relief, though this alone does not always reduce inflammation.
Conjunctivitis
Conjunctivitis, an eye infection also known as pink eye, may cause the eyelids to swell. Other symptoms may include redness, itching, discharge and light sensitivity, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. Conjunctivitis often improves gradually on its own, though some people may require an eye drop to help resolve the infection. Some people find that compresses help relieve irritation from the swollen eyelids. However, as the infection improves, with or without treatment, the eyelid swelling should improve as well.
Orbital Cellulitis
A serious condition that causes eyelid swelling is orbital cellulitis. This occurs when and infection sets in the tissues around the eye and eyelid. Additional symptoms include a fever, discoloration of eyelid and painful eye movement, according to MedlinePlus. Orbital cellulitis requires immediate medical attention in order to prevent permanent damage. Most people require hospitalization in order to receive antibiotics through an IV. As the antibiotics resolve the infection, eyelid swelling and other symptoms should improve. With prompt attention and treatment, most people have no residual effects from orbital cellulitis.
Chalazion
Eyelid swelling that appears localized around a bump under the skin of the eyelid may result from a chalazion. A chalazion occurs when one of the oil glands in the eyelid becomes blocked. Initially, a person should use warm compresses four or more times a day to soften the blockage and encourage drainage, says the University of Maryland Medical Center. If the chalazion does not gradually improve, an eye doctor may need to perform a minor surgical procedure to drain the gland. Once the blockage resolves, eyelid swelling should recede.
