Swollen upper eyelids are a problem that almost every person has encountered at least once in a lifetime. Well, if the swelling can be removed with a simple cold compress, but what if it does not disappear and, moreover, is accompanied by pain and discomfort? In fact, such a defect can indicate completely different diseases, so do not ignore the symptoms.
Why is the upper eyelid swollen?
Of course, there are many factors that can cause swelling of the eyelids. Some of them are relatively harmless, while others signal the presence of a very dangerous violation that requires immediate medical attention. So what does the swollen upper eyelids indicate?
- To begin with, it is worth mentioning an allergic reaction, since it is she who most often becomes the cause of edema. The role of allergens can be cosmetics, protein products of animal metabolism, dust mites , etc. And do not forget about seasonal allergies that occur when in contact with plant pollen. An allergic reaction, as a rule, is accompanied not only by swelling of the eyelids, but also by harshness in the eyes and redness of the conjunctiva.
- Swollen upper eyelids are often observed with barley - inflammation of the sebaceous gland located at the root of the eyelash. Barley, as a rule, is accompanied by severe swelling, pain and the formation of a noticeable abscess, which bursts after a few days.
- Blepharitis is a disease caused by inflammation of the skin tissue of the eyelids. Most often, the inflammatory process starts under the influence of a bacterial infection, although viruses and fungi can also be the cause. Therefore, if the upper eyelid turns red and swollen, it is worth making an appointment with an ophthalmologist.
- Another fairly common cause is conjunctivitis - inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye. Swelling of the eyelids is only one of the symptoms. This disease is also characterized by redness, pain and pain in the eyes, the formation of mucous or purulent discharge. By the way, inflammation of the conjunctiva can be caused by the activity of a bacterial, fungal or viral infection, as well as contact with certain chemicals, including those contained in decorative cosmetics.
- Do not forget about other reasons. If swollen upper eyelids are the only symptom, then this may indicate an accumulation of excess fluid in the body. Swelling can occur during pregnancy, a change in the hormonal background, while taking a number of drugs - while there is no redness of the skin, no suppuration, or soreness. Quite often, this condition occurs with problems with the work of the kidneys or developing renal failure.
Swollen upper eyelids: what to do?
Of course, puffiness can be tried to remove on their own. Cool compresses from cucumber juice, parsley broth, strong tea leaves and chamomile broth will be excellent helpers in this matter. But, as you already understood, swollen eyelids can be a symptom of a number of very unpleasant diseases, in which home treatment methods are unlikely to help. That is why it is worth asking a specialist for help. Only a doctor can determine the cause of the edema and prescribe the appropriate treatment.