Eyelid Swelling Treatment

Eyelid swelling is very common and is usually caused due to water retention in the eye area, particularly after deep sleep or rest. However, eyelids can also swell due to other factors like seasonal allergies, cold, infection of the eyes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and reaction triggered by eye makeup or contaminated contact lenses. Swollen eyelids can be bothersome particularly if they interfere with your vision. Swollen eyelids can be associated with itching, redness of the eye, and discharge of fluid from the eyes. Eyelids can also swell from prolonged crying. The salt in the tears is responsible for swelling the eyelids and making it uncomfortable. Whatever may be the cause, if swelling and discomfort persist, you should immediately consult an ophthalmologist. Severe eyelid swelling can also cause photophobia or sensitivity to light. For mild eye swelling, you can try any of these home remedies to minimize uneasiness and get some relief.

Swollen Eyelid Treatment

Apply Cold Compress
If your swollen eyelid is accompanied with burning and itching, cold compress can be of some relief. Take a clean and soft cotton cloth. Damp in ice cold water and press on the affected eyelid gently. Do not rub or touch the swollen eyelid as it might enhance the discomfort. Replace the water periodically.

Try Ice Pack
Ice is good for treating inflammation and swelling. Take a few ice cubes and wrap them in a towel. Apply on the swollen eyelid gently. Never apply ice directly on the eyes. This can cause ice burn and tissue damage.

Apply Cucumber
Take a slice of cucumber and place it on your closed eyelids for about ten minutes. Cucumber is rich in ascorbic acid and silicon. Plus, cucumber has high water content, which helps in minimizing eyelid swelling.

Restrict Salt Intake
If you have already been diagnosed with high blood pressure, restrict salt intake in your diet. Excess salt can trigger water retention in the body, which in turn leads to swelling of the eyes.

Witch Hazel Extracts
Witch Hazel astringent is known for its property to reduce swelling. Soak a cotton ball in the solution and squeeze out the extra liquid. Then place the cotton balls on the closed eyelids for about 30 minutes to reduce the inflammation.

Get Relief With Tea Bags
Tea bags contain tannic acid that is extremely beneficial in reducing eyelid swelling. It also gives relief to the burning eyes. To do this, soak tea bags in cold water and keep in freezer for two minutes. Then apply it on your closed eyelids.

Remove Eye Makeup
Many people develop allergic reaction to eye makeup. Plus, eye makeup can block the glands in the eyelids. Do not forget to remove eye makeup before going to bed at night so that your skin can breathe. Take a cotton ball and damp with cleansing milk. Then rub gently over closed eyes to remove eye makeup. You can even change the brand of cosmetics if you continue to have eyelid swelling from eye makeup.

Potato Helps
Cut thin slices of potato and apply them on your closed eyelids for 15 to 30 minutes for a soothing effect.

Use Pillow
Do you wake up from sleep with swollen eyelids every day? If yes, then in all likelihood your eyelids are retaining water resulting in swelling. Use a pillow while sleeping. This will keep your head elevated and restrict water retention in the eyelids. Also try to sleep on your back as much as possible.

The eyes are one of the most sensitive organs in the body. If you continue to have swollen eyelids and if the discomfort continues inspite of the above mention treatment tips, see your physician at the earliest.