In this article, we’ll introduce to you a few of the potential causes of puffy or swollen eyes in addition to various home eye treatments. This article will be a good start for gaining broader insights on puffy/swollen eyes.
Read further to know more about the causes and home treatments for swollen eyes.
Causes
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Allergies
One of the main causes of puffy or swollen eyes is eye allergies. As per the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, if an individual has severe food allergies, then he or she may experience swelling on the face as well. Some of the most common eye allergies are a result of pollen, dust, contact lenses, and eye drops. The good news is, eye allergies are easier to treat.
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Conjunctivitis
Another common cause for swelling of the eyes is conjunctivitis, otherwise known as ‘pink eye’. This particular condition is quite common during cold and flu seasons and is often caused by viruses, bacteria, allergens, and other similar irritants.
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Eye injuries
Swollen eyes are also a result of eye-related injuries. Any trauma caused by cosmetic surgeries such as Blepharoplasty can immediately trigger inflammation. When a trauma on the eyes occur, our eye compresses and retracts, leading to the formation of excessive blood underneath the damaged areas. This often causes skin discoloration and swelling.
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Contact lenses
Swollen eyelids are a result of improper caring for contact lenses. When we wear contact lenses while swimming or wear dirty lenses in general, all these can result in eyelids to swell.
In addition to the mentioned causes, several other causes such as eye cancer, thyroid eye disease, orbital cellulitis, and style can also contribute to swelling and puffiness of the eyes.
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Home Treatments
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Drink plenty of water
It is strongly advisable to drink at least 8 glasses of water every day for preventing and treating swollen or puffy eyes. When we drink lots of water, there is less water retention around the eyes and frequent urination is experienced, leading to a remarkable reduction in puffiness. When we drink less water, our body tries to store water in the eyelids as well, causing puffiness. Therefore, ensure that you drink enough water on a daily basis. Also, avoid consuming alcohol as that will cause dehydration.
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Use cold compress
For treating swelling, apply cold compress around the eyes. Take a few ice cubes and wrap them in a thin cotton cloth. Apply the cloth on the swollen area for fifteen minutes each time to relieve the swelling around the eyes. Follow this application thrice a day to see noticeable results. It is the coolness of the compress that will reduce swelling and bring overall relief to the eyes.
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Tea bags
Tea bags, and black tea bags, in particular, are of great help in reducing puffy eyes. Since tea bags carry anti-inflammatory properties, they help in reducing swollen eyes. All you need to do is take tea bags, boil it in a cup of water. Then place the tea bags in the refrigerator before use. Cold tea bags will brighten up the eyes almost instantly. Allow the tea bags to sit on the eyes for at least 10 to 15 minutes in each session.
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Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a well-known plant for its amazing healing properties. Treatment of swelling eyes is one of the benefits availed from an Aloe Vera plant. Extract Aloe Vera gel from an Aloe Vera plant and mix it well Vitamin E oil. Now apply this mixture to the swollen areas of the eyes. You can leave this mixture overnight to see best results.
If the problem persists.
Generally speaking, swollen or puffy eyes is usually harmless and can be treated at home; however, if the swelling still persists or worsen, then it is better to visit an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye checkup.
About the Author
Harvey Lee is a health and beauty blogger and works with various industry leading health and beauty product brands e.g. EyeSoothe: UK’s leading Eye Mask brand for various eye issues including Blepharitis, MGD, Dry eye syndrome and more. Harvey strongly recommends seeking physician opinion before replacing medication with natural or other non-clinical remedies.
