Swelling of the lower eyelid may cause discomfort and irritation. If this inflammation causes the eyelid to push against the eye, you may experience changes in your vision as well. You should contact your eye doctor if the inflammation does not decrease or if you have a fever or other worrisome symptoms. Knowing about inflammation of the lower eyelid may encourage you to contact your eye doctor for an evaluation.
Infection
One type of eye infection, blepharitis, causes inflammation of the edge of the eyelid, near the eyelashes. Inflammation result from debris gathering around the eyelashes, but this may also appear from a bacterial infection, explains the American Optometric Association.
Other infections, such as conjunctivitis, or "pink eye" causes eyelid inflammation. Bacteria, viruses or fungal sources cause conjunctivitis. Typically, conjunctivitis inflames both eyelids.
Blocked Meibomian Gland
You have oil glands in the tissues of your eyelids. The oil makes up a part of the natural tears of the eye that lubricate and nourish your eye's surface. If a blockage occurs in one of these glands on your lower eyelid, inflammation may occur, and you may have a large, tender bump underneath the surface of the eyelid called a chalazion, says UPMC. The surface of your eye may feel uncomfortable and you may have excessive tearing.
Other Causes
Pollens, pets or other allergens, may cause your eyelid to swell. Many people experience swelling of both eyelids, but a single lid may appear inflamed. A serious condition called orbital cellulitis, may also cause your eyelid to swell. This condition results from an infection of the tissue around and behind the eye. You may have a fever, severe pain and difficulty moving your eyes, explains MedlinePlus.
Diagnosis
Your eye doctor may touch your eyelid, pressing in certain areas to help determine the cause for the inflammation. She may also use a special microscope for the eyes, a machine called a slit lamp. You will place your chin in the chin rest, and the doctor sit on the other side of the microscope. She will shine a bright light in your eyes and move the slit lamp in front of your eyes. This allows the doctor to closely examine your eyelids for signs of infection and other conditions.
Treatment
The treatment your eye doctor recommends will depend on the cause of your eyelid inflammation. Conditions such as conjunctivitis or eye allergies, may respond quickly to a medicated eye drop. Orbital cellulitis requires immediate treatment with intravenous antibiotics to treat the infection and reduce inflammation. If you have blepharitis, your eye doctor will recommend cleaning your eyelids carefully to clear away the dandruff-like debris, says the American Optometric Association. Artificial tears may help relieve surface irritation of the eyes.
