Swollen Eye Remedies: Treating Swollen Eyes

Swollen eyes can lead to discomfort and irritation.

In severe cases, swollen eyes may indicate underlying health issues that need to be addressed medically.

However, mild cases of swollen eyes can be treated with at-home remedies.

In this article, we will discuss the swollen eye remedies and their effectiveness.

Effective swollen eye remedies

Eye swelling can be annoying, and you may want to get rid of it immediately. 

It might affect your vision and become an obstacle in your day-to-day tasks. 

Several eye conditions, including allergies, Conjunctivitis or Pink eye, Styes, and eye injury, can lead to swollen eyes.

Generally, swollen eyes vanish on their own in a few days with simple at-home remedies.

These include cold compression, cucumber, tea bags, massage, potato, and adequate sleep.

However, severe cases of swollen eyes should be evaluated by an ophthalmologist as they may indicate an underlying medical issue. 

Know more about the factors leading to swollen eyes. Read our article: “Why is my eye swollen (Causes of swollen eye)“

Cold compression

Cool compresses are useful for soothing inflamed skin and reducing eye inflammation. 

It can lessen the eye swelling through the constriction of the surrounding blood vessels.

Cold compression helps to calm your eyes and regulates fluid flow.

If you don’t already have a cold compress, it’s simple to make one at home. 

Just soak a clean towel with cold water and apply it for 20 to 30 minutes to relieve your eyes.

Swollen eyes can also be relieved by cold spoons. 

After putting two spoons in the freezer to get them cold, place them over your eyes like an ice pack or cool washcloth. 

Exert just a small amount of pressure on your eyes with the help of cold spoons. 

This will encourage blood flow and divert fluid accumulation away from your eyes.

This is one of the simplest at-home treatments for swollen eyes and may help to calm your eyes.

Cucumber

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Cucumber is a great cooling vegetable to consume and apply to the skin. 

Cooled cucumber slices on your eyes work as a cold compress, potentially decreasing discomfort and swelling. 

Simply cut a few cucumber slices and freeze them for a bit. 

Then you can just place them over your eyes, sit back, and relax.

Cucumber’s high water content moisturizes skin and minimizes swelling. 

It also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that might help you get rid of dark circles.

Tea bags

Green tea bags are a traditional home remedy for swollen eyes. 

Green tea has antibacterial characteristics that can aid with several conditions, including burning sensations, swelling, and irritation. 

Besides being rich in antioxidants, green tea includes tannins and caffeine, both of which can help reduce swelling around the eyes. 

Tannins restrict bodily tissues, and caffeine improves blood circulation. 

Both of these might help you get rid of swollen eyes. 

Simply store two used tea bags in the refrigerator for 10 to 20 minutes. 

Then, apply those cold green tea bags to both of your closed eyes for 15-30 minutes. 

Repeat this home treatment at least 2-3 times daily until you see a noticeable improvement in your eyes.

Massage

Massaging your eyes gently can also help relieve swollen eyes. 

Rub your eyes clockwise using your fingers or a clean washcloth. 

Doing this at least twice a day can give relaxation and enhance the overall condition of your eye.

Also, simply rubbing almond oil under the eyes for 20-30 minutes before going to bed can be helpful. 

It improves blood circulation to the eyes and decreases swelling.

Potato

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Potatoes are one of the most effective and simplest home remedies for swollen eyes. 

Just chop two slices of cold, uncooked potato and place them gently over your eyes for around 10-15 minutes.

You can also use potato juice instead of slices.

Potatoes have a beneficial enzyme called Catecholase.

This enzyme efficiently reduces water retention around your eyes, resulting in decreased puffiness and swelling on your eyelids. 

Use this home treatment on a daily basis to get rid of swollen eyes.

Adequate sleep

Resting and sleeping with your head up can also be an effective home cure for swollen eyes. 

This helps to remove fluids from your eyelids and surrounding tissues. 

Since the skin regenerates and repairs itself during rest, sleeping seven to eight hours every night can help minimize swollen eyes. 

Furthermore, sleep stimulates blood flow to your skin, allowing it to regenerate collagen and minimize swelling.

This natural method can be used with another home cure to increase effectiveness. 

For example, when sleeping, place cucumber slices on your eyelids for greater results.

Conclusion

Swollen eyes might make it difficult to carry out everyday tasks. 

It can be caused by several eye disorders, such as allergies, Conjunctivitis or Pink eye, Styes, and eye injuries. 

You may try out several swollen eye remedies to reduce swelling at home. 

These remedies may include tea bags, potato, cucumber, massage, and cold compress. 

However, if the swelling persists after a few days and you feel pain or discomfort in your eyes, you should consult an ophthalmologist.

Severe cases of swollen eyes need immediate medical attention. Read our article: “How to treat a swollen eye” to learn about medications for swollen eyes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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• Webmd.com