Inflammation, redness and swelling on your eyelid often stems from conjunctivitis, or blocked oil glands. Conjunctivitis is an eye infection that might cause additional symptoms such as itching, tearing and discomfort. A blocked oil gland, also called a stye, will typically cause a bump to appear on the eyelid that may cause swelling and redness in the surrounding area. An intake of vitamin A will not cause these conditions or any others that result in red, swollen eyelids.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is an important nutrient for your health. This nutrient promotes good vision, healthy bones, proper cell function and a healthy immune system, explains the Office of Dietary Supplements. The front surface of your eye has a thin layer of tissue protecting the surface, and vitamin A helps maintain the health of this tissue, helping to prevent infections. In considering these functions, an intake of vitamin A would not cause a red, swollen eyelid.
Effects
A vitamin A deficiency might result in night blindness and an increased number of infections due to a poor immune system. If you intake too much vitamin A, you might notice toxic symptoms such as central nervous system disorder, changes in bone density and liver abnormalities. A high intake of vitamin A in a short amount of time might result in a condition called acute toxicity, and symptoms might include vision changes, dizziness, headache, nausea and vomiting, reports the Office of Dietary Supplements.
Treatment
If you have a red, swollen eyelid, you should contact your doctor for an evaluation. The symptoms might result from a simple eye infection, such as pink-eye, or allergies. In many instances, a medicated eye drop might help resolve the inflammation. Certain causes of these symptoms might not have a medication or other treatment to help relieve your discomfort. In such cases, your doctor may recommend holding a cool, damp washcloth against your affected eyelid a few times a day.
Considerations
Do not take herbs or other supplements to relieve inflammation of the eyelids. Instead, contact your doctor to determine the cause for your condition. These symptoms could indicate a more serious condition, such as orbital cellulitis, which will require immediate treatment to avoid complications such as vision loss or widespread infection.
