Eyelid swelling may occur in the upper or lower eyelids, or depending on the cause, both lids may swell. For some people, the swollen lid may appear suddenly, with no other symptoms, but some people may experience additional symptoms, some of which may appear before the eyelid swells. Knowing some of the causes for a swollen lower eyelid may help determine necessary treatment and help a person prevent episodes of swelling in the future.
Allergies
Eye allergies commonly cause swollen eyelids. Additional symptoms may include itching, watering and tearing. The swelling occurs in response to allergens, such as pollen. In most people, an allergic reaction will cause both eyelids to swell. However, if a piece of plant matter or other particle gets in the eye, it may lodge behind the lower eyelid. This proximity may result in swelling of the lower eyelid, whereas the upper eyelid remains unaffected. The presence of the matter may cause discomfort, and a person may require an eye doctor to remove the foreign body, especially if the matter adhered to the underside of the eyelid.
A cool compress held against closed eyes may help with allergic reactions, states The University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center. A person may wish to use a clean washcloth and hold this under cool water, ringing out any excess water. She can then hold the cloth in place for 10 minutes and repeat the process a few times a day. Allergy eyedrops or oral allergy medications may also relieve swelling.
Infection
Conjunctivitis, also known as pinkeye, may cause swelling of the upper or lower eyelids. This condition results from a bacterial or viral infection, causing itching, redness, tearing, irritation or thick discharge. Many people with conjunctivitis do not require medication or other treatment since the infection will usually resolve on its own. In some individuals, severe symptoms may require treatment. Bacterial conjunctivitis may respond to antibiotic eyedrops to treat the infection. Viral conjunctivitis does not have a treatment for the virus itself. Instead, doctors may prescribe steroid eyedrops to help relieve the symptoms until the virus runs its course, explains the American Optometric Association. Once the infection resolves, eyelid swelling should disappear.
Chalazion
The tissue that makes up the eyelids holds small glands called meibomian glands. These glands produce oil that helps nourish the surface of the eye. On occasion, a blockage may occur, causing a bump to appear on the eyelid, called a chalazion. This may lead to significant swelling only on the affected eyelid. Other symptoms may include pain, tearing and light sensitivity. Small blockages may loosen and drain with the use of warm compresses held against the eye for 10 minutes, four times a day. If the infected gland does not drain, the eyelid may continue to swell, causing increased discomfort. In such cases, an eye doctor may need to drain the blocked gland. The doctor may prescribe an antibiotic eyedrop or inject a steroid near the blockage to aid in healing, states MedlinePlus. Once the blockage dissolves, eyelid swelling will go down.
