Just like a bruise on other locations of the body, a black eye appears when blood pools under the skin. A black eye in a child often occurs from an injury such as a fall or toy hitting the eye or surrounding area. The bruising may last a few days or weeks, depending on the severity of the injury, but initially your child may experience other symptoms such as swelling. If you take steps to decrease the swelling in the tissues around the eye, your child may feel more comfortable.
Step 1
Elevate the child's head. She should sit upright or in an inclined position so that her head is positioned higher than her heart to help reduce the inflammation.
Step 2
Apply compresses. The Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh recommends periodically applying cool compresses to the affected eye for the first day, then warm compresses the second day after the black eye or until the swelling dissipates. Apply the compresses for 5 to 10 minutes at a time throughout the day. Use an ice or hot pack for a compress, or dampen a clean washcloth with cool or warm water.
Step 3
Ask a doctor about using an anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen. This may help reduce swelling, as well as offer relief from any pain associated with the bruising. The dosage of the anti-inflammatory will depend on the child's health and age, and the pediatrician will determine the appropriate amount.
Things You'll Need
- Compress or washcloth
- Pediatric anti-inflammatory medication
