Puffy eyes can be caused by a variety of factors, from fluid buildup to hormonal changes. Treatment steps also vary, depending on the cause. Therefore, make sure you know the cause of puffy eyes before starting treatment.
Swollen eyes or in medical terms is called periorbital often occurs in the upper and lower eyelids. This condition usually doesn't last long and will go away on its own in 1-2 days.
In addition to swelling, this eye problem can also be accompanied by other symptoms, such as excess tear production, red eyes, dry eyes, and sudden visual disturbances.
Swollen eyes usually only cause discomfort. However, if the swelling lasts longer, medical treatment steps by a doctor need to be done.
Various Causes of Swollen Eyes
There are many causes of puffy eyes. Therefore, you need to identify the various causes of puffy eyes before determining how to treat them. The following are the causes of puffy eyes:
1. Lack of sleep
Lack of sleep is the cause of puffy eyes that is often experienced by some people. In addition to causing puffiness in the eyes, lack of sleep can also make the skin around the eyes become dull, wrinkled, and dark circles appear under the eyes.
To prevent puffy eyes, make sure you get at least 7–9 hours of sleep every day. Sleep with your head slightly elevated to prevent fluid from settling around your eyes which can cause puffy eyes.
2. Chalazion
A chalazion is characterized by a lump that usually appears on the upper eyelid. This condition is caused by blocked oil gland ducts, which causes fluid to build up in the eyelids.
The lump usually lasts for 2–6 months. However, there are several ways that can be done to relieve eye swelling due to chalazion, ranging from warm compresses, taking antibiotics, cleaning the eyelids regularly, gently massaging the swollen eye area, to minor surgery.
3. Allergies
Puffy eyes can also be a form of the body's natural reaction to allergies. Usually, allergies cause swollen eyes accompanied by discomfort and red, watery, and itchy eyes.
There are many factors that can trigger allergies, ranging from dust, pollen, pet dander, drugs, food, to cosmetic products.
To treat puffy eyes due to allergies, you can clean your eyes with clean water, apply a cold compress, wash your face, or use eye drops for allergies.
4. Blepharitis
Another cause of puffy eyes is blepharitis. Blepharitis is an inflammation of the eyelids that occurs in the area where the eyelashes grow, because the oil glands located near the eyelashes are blocked. This condition causes the eyes to become swollen, irritated, and even red.
Treatment of swollen eyes due to blepharitis can be done by giving artificial tears. However, in severe blepharitis, doctors usually will give antibiotics and corticosteroid drugs in the form of eye drops or eye ointment.
5. Conjunctivitis
The cause of puffy eyes on this one is one of the most common diseases. Conjunctivitis is an infection or swelling of the outer membrane of the eyeball, with symptoms such as red, watery, and itchy eyes.
This condition is most often caused by a viral infection, but it can also be caused by bacteria. In addition to infection, conjunctivitis can also occur due to allergies and irritation to certain substances.
To relieve symptoms, you can use warm compresses or over-the-counter eye drops. However, if the conjunctivitis is caused by allergies, you can also take antihistamines, such as loratadine and diphenhydramine.
6. Insect stings
Insect bites or stings can cause allergic reactions such as puffy eyes. Bees and tomcats are insects whose stings can cause swollen eyes.
In addition to the eye area, insect stings can cause swelling in the mouth and throat area, difficulty breathing, dizziness, wheezing, stomach pain, and even fainting. This condition is called anaphylactic shock and requires immediate treatment.
To relieve puffy eyes from insect stings, you can apply an itching cream or take an antihistamine.
Knowing the cause of puffy eyes is important to know before determining how to treat it. However, if the swollen eye condition does not improve after doing some of the treatments above, immediately consult a doctor to get the right treatment.