Swelling around the eye may result from a number of conditions, some of which may cause severe complications without medical attention. If swelling worsens, you should contact an eye doctor for an evaluation and to determine what treatment you require. Understanding some of these treatments, and why a doctor may recommend them, may encourage you to seek treatment if necessary.
Compresses
If you have eyelid swelling from an eye infection, you may find relief with a cool compress held against the affected eye. This may help reduce inflammation, as well as ease itching and surface irritation. If eyelid swelling results from a blocked gland in the eyelid, called a chalazion, you may need to use warm compresses. A washcloth held under warm water, and the excess rung out, makes a good compress. Hold the warm cloth against your closed eyelid for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, and repeat this up to six times a day if necessary, says the American Optometric Association. This may help release the blockage in the gland, leading to a reduction in swelling.
Eye Drops
The thin, transparent layer that covers the white of the eye, called the conjunctiva, also lines the underside of the eyelid. If you have an eye infection that causes redness and inflammation on the eye's surface, the eyelids may also have inflammation and swelling of the eyelids. The eye infection, conjunctivitis, also commonly known as "pink eye," may result from allergies, bacteria or a virus. If you have mild symptoms, an eye doctor may recommend allowing the infection to resolve on its own. However, depending on the severity and cause of the symptoms, a doctor may prescribe eye drops to help resolve the infection and to relieve symptoms, says the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Systemic Medication
Some people experience swelling due to an infection of the surrounding tissues, a condition called orbital cellulitis. Additional symptoms may include high fever, vision changes, eye bulging, painful eye movement and discoloration of eyelids, says Medline Plus. This condition requires immediate treatment. In mild cases, and depending on the cause of the infected tissues, a doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics. However, some people may require antibiotics through an IV. These severe cases typically require a hospital stay to monitor medication, but also to ensure the condition responds to the treatment without complications.
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