Why is my upper eyelid swollen?

Why is my upper eyelid swollen?

The most common cause of eyelid swelling is allergies, either by direct contact with the allergen (such as animal dander entering your eye) or from a systemic allergic reaction (such as a food allergy or hay fever). If one eyelid is swollen, a common cause is a chalazion, an obstructed gland along the rim of an eyelid.

Can swollen eyelids be serious?

“Any swelling that lasts longer than 24 to 48 hours should send you to an eye care professional because there are times it can be something severe that can blind you,” says ophthalmologist Annapurna Singh, MD. There are several reasons why you might see swelling in your eyes or eyelids.

What can you do for a swollen eyelid?

Apply ice or a cold pack wrapped in a clean, wet washcloth to the eye for 15 to 20 minutes at a time to decrease eyelid swelling and pain. You can safely give your child an allergy medicine or antihistamine by mouth. This will help to decrease eyelid swelling and itching. Benadryl every 6 hours or so is best.

What is a chalazion of the eyelid?

A chalazion is a red bump on your eyelid. It is sometimes called an eyelid cyst or a meibomian cyst. It slowly forms when an oil gland (called a meibomian) becomes blocked. At first, the chalazion may be painful, but after a little time, it usually doesn’t hurt.

Are swollen eyes a symptom of the flu?

Viral sore throat, sinus infection, and influenza are examples of conditions that may cause these symptoms. Upper respiratory conditions may affect the eyes and lead to redness, puffiness, or watering eyes. Keep track of your symptoms.

What could cause swelling under just one eye?

An eye infection can cause under-eye swelling in one or both eyes. You can have an infection in the eye or eyelid. The infection and swelling will usually happen in one eye first, but can quickly spread to the other eye. Avoid touching or rubbing your eye.

How do you know if your eyelid is infected?

You may notice problems like:

1. Pain or discomfort.
2. Itchy eyes.
3. Feeling that something’s on or in your eye.
4. Eye hurts when it’s bright (light sensitivity)
5. Burning in your eyes.
6. Small, painful lump under your eyelid or at the base of your eyelashes.
7. Eyelid is tender when you touch it.
8. Eyes won’t stop tearing up.