Cod Liver Oil & Bumps on the Eyelids

Cod Liver Oil & Bumps on the Eyelids
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Bumps on your eyelid commonly result from a blockage or inflammation in the oil glands in your eyelids. These bumps, often referred to as styes, might cause redness, swelling and tenderness to the area. If the bump swells and presses against your eyeball, it can cause temporary vision changes as well. Your doctor can help you determine the best treatment, but you might want to discuss the possible benefits of cod liver oil for treating your symptoms.

Cod Liver Oil

Cod liver oil contains omega-3, fatty acids that might help reduce inflammation. As such, cod liver oil has the potential to decrease the swelling of an eyelid bump, but this supplement will not treat the condition. If you think cod liver oil might provide benefits for your eyelid condition, talk with your doctor. She can help you determine if using cod liver oil could improve your symptoms. If you and your doctor decide that cod liver oil might help, your doctor will explain how much you should take each day and when to stop using the supplement.

Other Sources

Your doctor might determine that another source of omega-3 could help reduce inflammation in your eyelids. Additional sources include fish oil capsules, which might contain oils from other fatty fish, such as salmon, herring or mackerel. If you prefer a plant-based source of omega-3, your doctor might recommend flaxseed oil capsules. Other options include consuming omega-3 as part of a healthful diet. Foods with omega-3 include fish such as salmon and herring, as well as ground flaxseed, pumpkin seeds and walnuts.

Additional Treatment

If the bump on your eyelid is a stye, your doctor might recommend a warm compress to help loosen the matter in the oil gland and allow the substance to drain. You can make a compress from a clean washcloth dampened with warm water. Once you wring out the excess water, you can place the warm cloth against your closed eyelid and hold it in place for five minutes. Your doctor might recommend that you repeat this process a few times a day. If the bump does not resolve and causes irritation or vision changes, your doctor might recommend removing the growth. If a stye is causing your symptoms, your doctor might recommend draining the oil gland.

Consideration

Your doctor should evaluate any unusual bumps or growths on your eyelid, since some bumps could result from skin cancer. Do not begin using cod liver oil unless directed by your doctor. Fish oil might have a blood-thinning effect, and your doctor can help you determine if you have any conditions that might put you at risk for bleeding.

References

Article reviewed by Shawn Candela Last updated on: Feb 9, 2011

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