What are Swollen Eyes a Symptom of?
October 7, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Swollen eyes, or periorbital edema, can be a symptom of various underlying conditions or factors. The swelling can affect the eyelids, the area around the eyes, or even the eyeballs themselves. Common causes of swollen eyes include:
- Allergies: Allergic reactions to pollen, pet dander, dust mites, certain foods, or other allergens can cause swelling and redness around the eyes.
- Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye): Inflammation of the conjunctiva, often due to bacterial or viral infections, can lead to red, watery, and swollen eyes.
- Sinusitis: Sinus infections or sinusitis can cause fluid retention and congestion in the sinuses, which may lead to swollen eyes and a puffy face.
- Eyestrain or Fatigue: Extended periods of reading, using screens, or insufficient sleep can cause eye strain and puffiness around the eyes.
- Periorbital Cellulitis: An infection in the tissues around the eye can cause redness, swelling, and tenderness.
- Insect Bites or Stings: Insect bites, particularly around the eye area, can cause localized swelling and redness.
- Dermatitis: Skin conditions like contact dermatitis or atopic dermatitis can cause irritation and swelling around the eyes.
- Blepharitis: Inflammation of the eyelids can result in swollen, red, and itchy eyes.
- Blocked Tear Ducts: Obstructions or infections in the tear ducts can cause tear accumulation and subsequent swelling of the eyes.
- Orbital Cellulitis: A serious infection of the tissues behind the eye can cause painful swelling, fever, and difficulty moving the eye.
- Trauma or Injury: Injuries to the eye or surrounding area can result in immediate swelling and bruising.
- Fluid Retention: Fluid accumulation due to various factors like high salt intake, hormonal changes, or certain medical conditions can cause puffiness around the eyes.
- Systemic Illnesses: Medical conditions like kidney disease, heart failure, or thyroid disorders can cause fluid retention and swollen eyes.
- Seasonal changes: During hot weather, high humidity, or changes in weather, some individuals may experience temporary eye swelling due to fluid retention.
If you experience persistent or severe eye swelling, especially if accompanied by pain, vision changes, fever, or other concerning symptoms, it’s important to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can accurately diagnose the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatment to alleviate the swelling and address the root issue.