Have you ever woken up with swollen eyelids and wondered what went wrong? It may be a very inconvenient and unpleasant scenario. Eye swelling is a typical phenomenon that can develop for a number of causes. Various things might contribute to this annoying eye issue, ranging from allergies and infections to eye injury and even weeping.
This blog article will examine the most frequent causes and symptoms of swollen eyelids and when to consult a doctor. Let’s begin!
What Is a Swollen Eyelid?
First of all, let’s understand this eye health issue clearly. A swollen eyelid is defined as puffiness or enlargement of one or both eyelids. A variety of circumstances can cause it.
However, the swelling should subside within a few hours or days. But if it doesn’t, understanding the underlying reason for your swollen eyes or eyelids is critical for finding the best treatment.
Swollen Eyelids: 5 Common Causes
Let’s dive into some common causes of swollen eyelids and get you the answers you need!
1. Orbital Cellulitis: It’s an illness that affects the tissues around the eye socket. It can produce eyelid redness, inflammation, swelling, and other symptoms such as fever and difficulties moving the eye.
2. Chalazion: A chalazion is a tiny, painless lump that grows on the eyelid due to an oil gland blockage. It might make the eyelids puffy and painful.
3. Ocular Herpes/Cold Sore: Cold sores, particularly those on the eyelid, can be caused by the Herpes simplex virus. This might result in swelling, redness, and pain.
4. Allergies: Allergic responses to things such as pollen, pet dander, or some cosmetics can produce puffy and itchy eyelids.
5. Environmental Factors: Swollen eyelids can be caused by irritants such as dust, smoke, or chemicals.
Swollen eyelids can also be a sign of the following vision and eye health problems:
- Eyelid Infection or Stye: Redness, swelling, and soreness can result from an eyelid or oil glands infection. A painful lump frequently accompanies stye.
- Inflammation of the Eyelids (Blepharitis): It can produce redness, swelling, and crusting around the borders of the eyelids.
- Pink Eye (Conjunctivitis): Pink eye is an infection or inflammation of the conjunctiva, which is the membrane that covers the eye’s white area and lines the inside of the eyelid. Swelling, redness, and a runny or sticky discharge are all possible symptoms.
- Shingles: Caused by the varicella-zoster virus, shingles can infect the eye and create a painful rash with swelling and burning of the eyelid.
- Thyroid Disorders: Thyroid problems, particularly Graves’ disease, can induce eye-related symptoms such as swelling eyelids, bulging eyes, and double vision.
Other Concerning Symptoms of swollen eyelids are as follows:
- Pain in Your Eye While Blinking: If your eyes hurt when you blink, you probably have a more serious underlying disease that a specialist should address.
- The Sensation That Something is Trapped Inside Your Eye: The sensation that something is trapped inside your eye, along with a swollen eyelid, might indicate an eye injury or inflammation.
- Floaters: They are little specks or dots that appear to float across your view range. If you observe floaters as well as a swollen eyelid, you should seek medical assistance.
- Blurry or Distorted Vision: Changes in your vision, such as blurriness or distortion, may indicate a more serious vision and eye health issue.
- Inability to Move Your Eyes Normally: If you have trouble moving your eyes in all directions, it can also be a sign of a more serious underlying issue.
- Worsening Eyesight: If your eyesight continues to decline or worsen, you should visit a healthcare expert for a complete examination.
When Should You Go to the Doctor?
If your eyelids are swollen and hurt, your eyesight has worsened, or if you face any other concerning symptoms listed above, you should seek immediate medical attention. Your eye doctor can determine the underlying reason for your swollen eyelids or eyes and treat it to relieve discomfort and safeguard your eye health.
Infections, allergies, and underlying health disorders can all contribute to swollen eyelids. While some cases may resolve on their own, it is critical to be aware of any associated symptoms and seek medical assistance if necessary.
Remember that eye care should always be a priority, and obtaining expert treatment when necessary is the best approach to guarantee optimal eye health.
