What determines how young we look? Oddly enough, the condition of the skin on the eyelids plays a primary role. If it is healthy and elastic, we perceive the gaze as open, and the face and person as young. Alas, bruises, swelling and bags under the eyes age the faces of even very young people.
Swelling under the eyes is a very common problem, regardless of age and gender, especially relevant in our time - a time of time pressure, lack of movement and fresh air. If your eyelids are swollen, neither an Armani suit nor respectable Mont Blanc accessories will save your look.
How to remove swelling from the eyelids?
Swelling occurs due to the accumulation of a large volume of fluid in the intercellular space. The skin around the eyes is the thinnest.
In this article
- How to remove swelling from the eyelids?
- The most common causes of eyelid swelling
- How to relieve swelling of the eyelids after drinking alcohol?
- Eyelids are swollen after tattooing - what to do?
- How to remove swelling from the upper eyelid using folk remedies?
- How does massage help remove swelling from the upper eyelids?
- How else can you remove swelling from your eyelids?
Because of this, swelling appears on the eyelids or under the eye sockets. Other parts of the body also swell, but on the face it becomes immediately noticeable. Swelling of the eyelid or eye is not only a cosmetic problem. This symptom may signal the development of a disease, not necessarily related to the organs of vision. Let's look at all the possible causes of eyelid swelling and find out how to remove them.
Lifting operations
The most drastic intervention that will really give a visible effect is plastic surgery. During blepharoplasty, the doctor makes an incision along the eyelash edge, along the crease of the lower or upper eyelid, or on the inside of it. It then mechanically redistributes, removes or moves the soft tissue to smooth out the fold. Then the incision is sutured or glue is applied, which helps the wounds heal faster.
The method is very traumatic, but it is still not able to cope with the deep essence of the problem. It can mask an unsightly defect, but over time it will appear again.
What causes swelling of the eyelids and what should be done to relieve it?
Swelling may occur in one eye or both. In such cases, they speak of unilateral or bilateral edema, respectively. Most often the upper eyelids swell. This can happen for various reasons - pathological and non-pathological. The first group of factors includes eye diseases and diseases of other organs. Swelling of the eyelids is almost always observed with the development of inflammatory ophthalmopathologies. Among them:
- keratitis;
- blepharitis;
- conjunctivitis;
- iridocyclitis;
- barley.
The eyelids also swell with some systemic ailments - diseases of the kidneys, liver, blood vessels, diabetes mellitus, allergies, abdominal dropsy. Swelling of the upper eyelid is a very common symptom that cannot be called specific. It is difficult to determine from this sign alone whether it is a consequence of any pathology. However, often the eyelids swell for reasons that are not related to disease.
What do bags under the eyes tell you?
One of the signs of local eye pathologies or systemic diseases is swelling of the upper or lower eyelids. It represents the excess content of intercellular fluid, lymph, blood or pus in the fiber.
Swelling of the eyelids is easy to detect during self-examination. Due to swelling, the eyes are difficult to open, which causes severe discomfort to the person. Swelling is often accompanied by pain, itching, burning and various discharges from the eyes.
Based on the frequency of occurrence of this symptom, isolated or recurrent symptoms are distinguished. Regarding location:
- Swelling of the upper eyelid. The patient notes swelling, a significant increase in the size of the eyelid, and its hanging over the eye.
- Swelling of the lower eyelid. Characterized by the formation of pronounced bags under the eyes. As a rule, swelling of the lower eyelid is bilateral.
What do bags under the eyes tell you? Swelling will not tell you anything good.
- They are usually the result of an incorrect daily routine: lack of sleep, alcohol abuse, poor diet.
- Swelling may be the result of allergies or problems with internal organs.
- Incorrectly selected cream, crying or premenstrual syndrome - all this can also lead to unfortunate swelling.
Regardless of the cause, swollen eyelids do not look aesthetically pleasing and add several years to your age. It is urgent to restore the attractiveness of the eyes. Decorative cosmetics cannot do this; it will only emphasize the puffiness. Other, more effective, emergency measures are needed.
The most common causes of eyelid swelling
Swelling of the eyelids appears due to hormonal imbalances, as a result of visual fatigue, injury, after an insect bite, due to prolonged exposure to ultraviolet radiation on the eyes and skin.
In some cases, swelling occurs briefly after taking certain medications. However, the most common causes of edema are:
- alcohol consumption;
- poor nutrition;
- tattoo;
- overwork.
Let's look at these reasons in more detail and list ways that help quickly remove swelling.
Diagnosis and treatment
To find out the cause of eyelid swelling, you need not to delay and undergo diagnostics, which is carried out visually. For a more accurate diagnosis, you need to take urine and blood tests. A blood test is necessary to calculate the level of protein, urine - to identify kidney pathologies. In some individual cases, a CT scan or ultrasound may be required.
At the first symptoms of eyelid swelling, you should not:
- press or pierce an abscess;
- warm the eyelid, apply oil compresses;
- use decorative cosmetics;
- wear contact lenses.
The consequences of delayed treatment can be very different, including:
- elevated temperature;
- elephantiasis;
- glaucoma;
- increased intraocular and intracranial pressure;
- deterioration of vision, even complete loss of vision is possible.
To eliminate swelling, you should definitely consult a specialist. Only the attending physician can say whether these procedures are necessary or not. Procedures that eliminate swelling include:
- Masks, lotions and all kinds of creams are high-quality cosmetology products.
- The use of suspensions or eye drops on an anti-inflammatory or hormonal basis, antiallergic drugs, diuretics.
- Massages, thanks to which you can restore the functioning of the lymphatic system and remove excess fluid.
- Traditional methods - masks, lotions or diuretic teas.
If swelling of the eyelids occurs in the morning, then it is first necessary to identify the cause of this phenomenon. If the cause is an allergic reaction, then you need to eliminate the allergen and take an antiallergic drug. If the reason lies in the disease, then the eyes will stop swelling only after complete recovery. In the case where swelling appears after an insect bite or wound, you should wait for complete healing. The release of excess fluid can be accelerated by the following methods: mesotherapy, physiotherapy, medication treatment.
How to relieve swelling of the eyelids after drinking alcohol?
After drinking alcohol-containing drinks in large quantities, not only the eyelids, but also the entire face swells. With chronic alcoholism, swelling occurs in the legs and arms, which already indicates the development of severe pathologies of internal organs. The main cause of edema is the inability of the liver to process ethyl alcohol into components that would be harmless to the body. Also, swelling may indicate poor functioning of the urinary system, which leads to fluid stagnation.
Swelling usually goes away within a day or 24 hours. The speed of recovery depends on several factors:
- amount of alcohol consumed;
- frequency of drinking alcoholic beverages;
- person's age;
- condition of internal organs;
- genetic characteristics;
- body weight.
Edema can also occur in people who rarely drink. It depends on the body. Sometimes a feast cannot be avoided. Many people drink alcohol at corporate events and then have to go to work the next day. In the morning you saw that your face and eyelids were swollen, and you somehow needed to leave the house. What to do in this case? Women who are more concerned about this problem than men can hide puffiness under makeup. In principle, swelling will go away on its own within one or two days. It is only necessary to restore the balance of salts and fluids in the body, as well as get enough sleep.
Let's sum it up
Now it is completely clear that a drooping eyelid is not a death sentence at all. You can easily figure out what to do if one upper eyelid hangs over the eye more than the other, how to deal with it, what rules and cosmetics to use. You can use the services of cosmetologists and even plastic surgeons, but the risks are quite high, and there are a lot of contraindications. Therefore, it is worth trying to use the proposed methods in order to maintain the elasticity and density of the skin much longer.
Eyelids swell in the morning - what is the reason and how to remove the swelling?
If your eyelids are swollen after sleep, most likely the reason for this is poor nutrition. A late dinner consisting of smoked or too salty foods makes you thirsty.
A person drinks one or two extra glasses of water before bed, and wakes up in the morning with a swollen face. Usually there are bags or bruises under the eyes. Some people experience swelling of the upper eyelids. Also causes of swelling can be:
- lack of sleep;
- cosmetics that are not washed off before bed;
- smoking;
- overwork;
- stress;
- cry.
All these factors are not associated with diseases, so you can eliminate swelling yourself at home. You can quickly relieve swelling caused by the above reasons using cosmetic procedures, massage, ice and other means, which we will discuss later.
Eyelids are swollen after tattooing - what to do?
Tattooing is a cosmetic procedure that is very popular today. It is performed in beauty salons only by qualified specialists. Usually, materials that are safe for health are used, so tattooing does not cause side effects. However, no one is safe from them either.
The causes of eyelid swelling after tattooing can be:
- failure to comply with the cosmetologist’s instructions after the procedure;
- use of low quality pigment;
- too dry or thin skin;
- allergic reaction to dye;
- infection under the skin.
Eyelid or eyebrow tattooing is performed using a cosmetic instrument that comes into contact with the skin. Dye is injected underneath it. In this case, the integrity of the skin is compromised. As already noted, facial skin is very thin and sensitive. Any irritating factor can cause swelling under the eyes or on the eyelids. There is a risk of developing an inflammatory process, which is, of course, rare if the procedure is performed in a good salon.
Tissues react to the pigment as if it were a foreign body. Slight swelling is normal after insertion. Also, some patients complain of pain, itching, redness of the eyelids or eyebrows. However, there should not be severe swelling. Temporary swelling subsides during the first 24 hours after the procedure. If this does not happen, you need to consult a doctor.
How to remove swelling in such cases? It is not recommended to eliminate the symptom yourself until a specialist determines the cause of its occurrence.
How to remove swelling of the eyelids?
Swelling from the eyelid can be eliminated at home, in a clinic or in a salon. It all depends on what is causing the symptom, whether you have the time and money or not. If the nature of the swelling is pathological, then you first need to see a doctor. Typically, swelling of the eyelids as a symptom of the development of an eye disease is accompanied by the following signs:
- hyperemia or pallor;
- transillumination of blood vessels;
- lacrimation;
- itching and burning;
- thickening of the cartilage of the eyelid;
- pain;
- discharge of mucus or pus.
If you have several of these symptoms, you should see an ophthalmologist. It is dangerous to relieve swelling from the eyelid using folk remedies or medicines that are in your home medicine cabinet. The disease may become more complicated. If you are sure that swelling of the eyelid is not a consequence of the development of the disease, you can use the recipes of the so-called traditional medicine. Let's find out what you can urgently do to get rid of puffiness.
How to remove swelling from the upper eyelid using folk remedies?
You can quickly get rid of swelling of the eyelids with the help of lotions, compresses and face masks. They do not cure diseases, but help soothe the skin and muscles, which promotes the outflow of excess fluid. On the Internet you can find many recipes that are used to relieve swelling of the eyelids. Let's list some of them:
- Cold. Everyone has ice cubes in their refrigerator. They need to be wrapped in gauze or bandage and applied to closed eyelids for 1-2 minutes. The eyes should not be too cold. It is better to apply ice to the eyelids intermittently.
- Carrot. Make a mask from the grated vegetable. You can apply it not only to the upper eyelids, but also to the skin under the eyes, the bridge of the nose, and cheekbones.
- Flax seeds. They need to be filled with hot water and left overnight. The resulting broth is filtered. Lotions are made from it and applied to the eyelids for 10-15 minutes. This remedy is believed to help with swelling and inflammation. However, if there is an inflammatory process, it should be treated by a doctor.
- Tea with mint. Tea may have a decongestant effect. Tea compresses are applied to the eyes for 15-20 minutes. Instead of tea leaves, you can also use plants such as chamomile, calendula, thyme, fireweed, and sage.
- Chilled milk. Tampons are moistened in it and left on the upper eyelids for 20-25 minutes. Also, some supporters of traditional medicine suggest using other dairy products - cottage cheese or sour cream.
- Raw potatoes. It can be cut into circles or grated on a fine grater to make compresses.
- Egg white. It has an astringent effect. Apply to eyelids for 15-20 minutes, then wash off with warm water. Daily use of eggs in this way helps smooth out wrinkles on the eyelids.
These products help to slightly eliminate swelling. There are more effective methods. Let's find out how to remove swelling from the upper eyelids using massage.
Basic mechanisms of age-related changes
The anatomy of the periorbital region, in which the problem of the hanging upper eyelid is observed, has its own characteristics. This specificity determines the maximum susceptibility of the area around the eyes to age-related changes, which include negative structural and biochemical transformations and a decrease in the ability to self-heal. Over time, the skin gradually becomes thinner, the thickness of the epidermis decreases, and the facial muscles lose tone. As a result, the muscle tissue that holds the upper eyelid in the correct position above the eye weakens, and ptosis occurs.
Degree of drooping eyelids | ||
1. | Partial ptosis | The eyelid hangs over 1/3 of the pupil |
2. | Incomplete ptosis | Closed from 1/2 to 2/3 of the pupil |
3. | Complete ptosis | The pupil is completely closed |
The inevitable aging processes occur in all parts of the eyelid, but the degree of intensity of degenerative changes depends on lifestyle, negative external influences, genetic factors and other individual characteristics that affect the structure of the skin and ligaments. The fight against the impending eyelid will be more effective if you correctly determine the causes of ptosis and act comprehensively to solve the problem, using various techniques on an ongoing basis.
How does massage help remove swelling from the upper eyelids?
If your upper eyelids are swollen after sleep or due to alcohol consumption, you can do a lymphatic drainage massage.
Similar services are provided in salons. The massage is performed with hands or a special device. Massaging the eyelids helps improve blood circulation and fluid outflow. After just one session, which lasts 15-20 minutes, the swelling noticeably subsides. Not everyone has the opportunity to visit expensive salons. If you urgently need a massage to quickly relieve swelling from the upper eyelids, perform it according to the following algorithm:
- wash your hands and face with soap;
- apply moisturizer or oil to the skin;
- Using your middle and index fingers, massage your upper eyelids in a circular motion from the outer corner of your eyes to the inner corner;
- apply a few light pressures to the eyeballs and pat the skin around them with your hands;
- Massage your eyelids, temples, and eyebrows in a circular motion.
The massage should be completed with a contrast wash. If you do it daily, swelling will rarely appear. However, it is necessary to consult a doctor before performing this procedure, as there are contraindications to it:
- eye injuries;
- postoperative period;
- chronic ophthalmopathologies;
- inflammatory diseases of the eyelids and eyes;
- cataract;
- glaucoma;
- retinal detachment.
Do not forget that swelling of the eyelids as a symptom of any illness can only be treated under the guidance of a doctor, so as not to aggravate the situation. You can resort to folk remedies and massage only if it is approved by a specialist, and swelling rarely occurs and is not due to disease.
Will eye exercises help remove swelling?
Special exercises to relax the eye muscles will help relieve swelling if it is not caused by illness. Eye exercises increase blood circulation and oxygen supply to tissues. This also helps eliminate swelling, although not as effective as lymphatic drainage massage. If desired, you can use several treatment methods at the same time.
Try the following exercises:
- move your eyeballs in different directions;
- close your eyes tightly and open your eyes wide, repeating this algorithm 5 times;
- massage the upper eyelids with your fingers from the bridge of the nose to the outer corner of the eyes and back;
- pull the lower eyelid up and relax, then repeat this with the second eyelid.
You can use other sets of exercises. It is better for your doctor to choose it for you, especially if you have vision problems. Gymnastics may be contraindicated in case of refractive errors, for which special exercises are selected. You should also not do exercises if you have inflammatory eye diseases, retinal pathologies, increased intraocular pressure and some other diseases.
Massage treatments
Massage will help remove swelling. Using light movements, lightly pressing on the skin, massage the eyelids with your fingertips for several minutes. The skin in this area is very thin, delicate and requires careful handling.
To achieve the best effect, you must use natural oils: grape seed, almond, peach or moisturizer. After the massage procedure, you should briefly apply cotton pads soaked in cold water.
In addition, it is recommended to perform some exercises:
- Squeezing your eyes shut. You need to close your eyes tightly for 5-7 seconds, then open your eyes wide. The exercise should be repeated 10-12 times.
- Circular rotation of the eyeballs. It is necessary to perform several rotations clockwise, then counterclockwise. At the same time, you should keep your head straight.
- Blinking. You should blink quickly and relax your eye muscles for 10-12 seconds.
- Complete the set of exercises with palming.
How else can you remove swelling from your eyelids?
For swelling, physiotherapeutic procedures may be prescribed. Some of them are available only in paid clinics. This method of treatment is the most effective of those listed. In several sessions of physiotherapy, it is possible not only to relieve swelling, but also to smooth out wrinkles, increase skin and muscle tone, and improve blood circulation in the eye area. The following procedures are applied:
- myostimulation;
- electrical stimulation;
- fractional thermolysis;
- cryotherapy.
There are contraindications to this treatment, so you will have to undergo an examination before the procedures.
What happens if swelling is not treated?
Some people's eyelids always seem swollen, which is due to their structure or some congenital defect. In most cases, swelling goes away on its own without treatment. If swelling on the face is a frequent symptom that worries you, you need to make an appointment with an ophthalmologist. Pathological edema can, if left untreated, lead to the development of complications, including glaucoma. Also, constant swelling of the eyelids, if they block the pupil, can affect vision.
Prevention of edema includes the following rules:
- balanced diet, consumption of a small amount of salt and volume of water corresponding to body weight;
- rejection of bad habits;
- normal mode of work, rest and sleep;
- timely treatment of all diseases.
Swelling of the eyelids seems to be a harmless symptom, but if it occurs, it is better not to take risks and not to self-medicate, but to visit a doctor.
Prevention measures
Preventing swelling is not so difficult if you follow these simple rules:
giving up alcohol and smoking; healthy eating, adherence to sleep and rest patterns; sports, hardening; limiting salt intake; use of high-quality cosmetics, compliance with hygiene rules; the use of eye protection in hazardous industries, at sea, in the sunny season; caution when playing and playing sports to avoid eye injuries; timely treatment of any infectious diseases.
Conclusion. Puffiness of the eyelids is not such an innocent phenomenon as many people believe, and not just an unsightly cosmetic defect. Often this is a symptom of a serious internal disease that must be treated. Ignoring eye swelling can cause swelling of the eyeball, elephantiasis, glaucoma and even blindness. Therefore, you should first of all remember a healthy lifestyle and preventive measures. And if an unpleasant symptom does appear, then promptly seek help from a doctor.
It is always unpleasant to wake up in the morning to find swollen eyelids. Such a circumstance can become a problem for the whole day. In order not to experience these difficulties in the future, you need to know the reasons for their occurrence.