Swollen Eye

What are the symptoms of a swollen eye?

A swollen eye can have quite different symptoms from one person to the next, depending on the underlying cause. Here are some of the common things people notice when they have a swollen eye. 

• One or both eyes: The swelling may only affect one eye, or it could affect both at the same time. It might start quickly or develop over a few days or weeks. 

• Swelling in the eyelids: Depending on the cause, you may get swelling in one eyelid (the top or the bottom lid) or even just in one part of one eyelid. 

• Lumps or patches on the eyelid: You may notice there are lumps or swellings that start to appear on the inside or the outside of your eyelids. 

• Blurred vision: If the eyelids are very swollen, you may have problems seeing through them and get blurry vision. Sometimes, the eyelids can be so swollen that you can't see with the affected eye. 

• Grittiness: You may get an itchy, scratchy or gritty sensation in your eyes, almost as if there's something stuck in your eye. 

• Sensitivity to light: You might find that your eyes feel more painful when they're exposed to sunlight or some kinds of indoor lighting. 

• Sticky discharge or pus: You might notice that your eyes release a sticky discharge that looks like pus and that collects around your eye socket. 

• Watery eyes: You might also notice that your eyes water a lot more than usual. Your eyes will feel very watery, and tears may run down your face. 

• Red eyelids: People with paler skin may notice that their eyelids go red or pink. If you have darker skin, the eyelid may not appear noticeably different in colour. 

• Eyelid dryness or flaking: The skin on your eyelids might feel dry, or you might notice the skin become flaky on the eyelid and around the eye. 

• Pain: The eyelids themselves, as well as the skin around your eyes, might feel very tender to the touch. This can range from mild soreness to severe pain when the area is touched. 

• Eye movement problems: You might find your eye movement is restricted, so it is uncomfortable to move it up and down or side to side. 

• Swelling elsewhere: Depending on the cause of your swollen eye, you may also notice you get swelling in other parts of your face, hands, feet or limbs. 

• Bruising: You may also notice bruising of the skin around the eye. This is most common with a black eye. The colour of the bruise will change over time.

How is a swollen eye treated?

If you have a swollen eye, it's important to speak with your optometrist or GP. They will guide you through how to get rid of a swollen eye. 

We've listed some possible home remedies for swollen eyes, as well as treatments your optometrist or GP might recommend. 

How to reduce eye swelling at home 

Very often, a swollen eye can be treated with some simple home remedies. However, it's always best to get medical advice ‑ particularly if you notice more worrying symptoms (such as pain, light sensitiveness, or difficulty opening the eye). 

• Cleaning and eye hygiene: Try cleaning any discharge or pus away from your eyelid with warm, soapy water. Close your eyelid, then gently wash it to clear any debris or pus. 

• Cold compress: Try applying a cold compress to the eyelids to help relieve soreness and inflammation. Place a clean, damp cloth in the fridge. Once it's cool, place it over your eyelids. 

• OTC antihistamines: If your swollen eye is caused by a milder allergic reaction, such as hay fever or pet hair, over‑the‑counter antihistamines can often really help. 

• Flush chemicals out of your eyes: If you get a swollen eye after a chemical splash, wash your eyes out with cool, clean water for several minutes.  

Medical treatments for a swollen eye 

Depending on what's causing your swollen eye, your optometrist or GP might recommend other treatments. 

• Eye drops for swollen eyelids: Sometimes, antibacterial eye drops can help to clear up the underlying cause of the swollen eye. They can resolve the infection and reduce irritation. 

• A course of antibiotics: If your swollen eye is caused by a bacterial infection, you may be prescribed a course of antibiotics that you'll take for a few days. 

• Allergy management: If you have very severe allergies that cause swollen eyes and other dangerous reactions, your doctor will help you create a plan to manage those risks. 

• Surgery: Depending on what's causing your swollen eye, it might be necessary to perform surgery. For example, if it's related to a blocked tear duct, this may need to be operated on.