A black eye occurs when the skin around the eyes beings to bleed, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you have had trauma to the face, you may be left with a black eye. In some cases, black eyes are not serious and can be treated at home. You can reduce the swelling and puffiness caused by a black eye with home remedies and items from around the house. If confusion, vision problems or bleeding through the nose occur, get medical treatment immediately.
Step 1
Fill a clean washcloth or towel with ice and apply it to the area surrounding the eye, recommends the Mayo Clinic. The sooner you apply the ice, the more effective the compress will be in reducing swelling and puffiness. Do not apply pressure to the eye area with the ice.
Step 2
Take acetaminophen to help reduce the pain and swelling associated with a black eye, recommends the Kids Health website. You can purchase acetaminophen at the drugstore or grocery store. Take a dose every four hours, or as recommended on the medication label.
Step 3
Prop your head up with an extra pillow at night to help reduce fluid accumulation around the eye. Keeping your head elevated will allow drainage in the eye area to help reduce excess swelling.
Step 4
Sleep on the opposite side of the injury, suggests Kids Health. Sleeping on the black eye can place pressure on the eye, which can increase swelling. Instead, sleep on your back or the opposite side of the body.
Tips and Warnings
- Do not use ibuprofen or aspirin for a black eye, as they can increase bleeding, according to Kids Health.
- Consult a doctor if the eye is bloodshot or contains blood.
Things You'll Need
- Washcloth or towel
- Ice
- Acetaminophen
- Pillow
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