The Mayo Clinic says that swollen or puffy eyes may occur as a part of aging. The condition may also be caused by fluid retention around the eyes. When a person lies flat, to sleep for example, fluid can build up in the eye area and cause a swollen look in the morning. Allergic reactions and other factors can also lead to puffy eyes. There are several home remedies for swollen eyes. However, a physician should be consulted if there are concerns about swollen eyes.
Use Gravity
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Beautiful Skin, by Marsha Gordon and Alice E. Fugate suggests that staying in an upright position may help drain excess fluids out of the eyes and reduce swelling in the eyes. In this method gravity works to pull fluids in a downward direction. Furthermore, activities like walking may help speed up this process.
Raise Head of Bed
Sleeping on a bed with an elevated head may help prevent accumulation of fluids in the eyes in the first place. This can be achieved by sleeping with more than one pillow or raising the head of the bed. The head end of a mattress could also be propped up.
Avoid Allergens
If swollen eyes are caused by allergens, the offending allergens should be identified and avoided. Doing this may prevent future occurrences of swelling in the eye area.
Cold Compress
A cold compress is a home remedy for puffy eyes. It involves wetting a wash cloth with cool water and then placing the cool wash cloth over the swollen eyes. This should be done sitting up and with the eyes closed. The cold compress should be left on the eyes for a few minutes.
Cucumber Slices
Cold cucumber slices may help reduce swelling in the eye area. To use this home remedy for swollen eyes, a slice of cool cucumber is placed on each swollen eye. They should be left on for about 10 minutes while the feet are elevated and the head is in a relaxed, laid back position.
Avoid Salt
Salt causes water retention in the body. So to prevent eye swelling due to fluid accumulation, avoid consuming foods that promote water retention. Such foods should be especially avoided just before bedtime.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep at night may help alleviate swollen eyes. The Mayo Clinic says that about seven to eight hours of sleep may be best for adults.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Bags Under Eyes- Lifestyle and home remedies
- The Complete Idiot's Guide to Beautiful Skin" Marsha Gordon, Alice E. Fugate; 1998
- "Growing Younger: Age-Defying Secrets for Women"; Bridget Doherty, Julia VanTine; 2001
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