What are the common causes of eye swelling. How can eye swelling be effectively treated. What role do inflammation and infections play in eye swelling. What are the key strategies for managing and preventing eye swelling.

Understanding Macular Edema: A Common Form of Eye Swelling

Macular edema is a condition characterized by swelling in the retina, specifically in the macula, which is responsible for central vision. This swelling can lead to vision problems and, if left untreated, potentially cause vision loss.

Symptoms of Macular Edema

The primary symptoms of macular edema include:

• Blurry vision that may worsen over time
• Wavy appearance of objects, especially when looking straight ahead
• Discrepancies in object sizes when viewed with one eye versus the other
• Dulled or faded colors

Can macular edema affect only one eye. Yes, it’s possible for macular edema to occur in just one eye, which may delay the recognition of vision changes. The severity of symptoms can vary from mild blurriness to significant central vision loss, impacting daily activities such as reading and driving.

Exploring the Causes of Macular Edema and Eye Swelling

Macular edema occurs when blood vessels leak fluid into the macula, causing it to swell. Various conditions can lead to this problem:

1. Diabetic retinopathy (the most common cause)
2. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD)
3. Retinitis pigmentosa (RP)
4. Uveitis
5. Retinal vein occlusion
6. Complications from eye surgery
7. Side effects of certain medications

Why is diabetic retinopathy a significant concern for macular edema. Diabetic retinopathy is a leading cause of macular edema, particularly in the form of diabetic macular edema (DME). For individuals with diabetes, proper management of the condition and regular dilated eye exams are crucial in preventing or delaying vision loss.

Diagnostic Procedures for Macular Edema

Eye doctors employ various methods to diagnose macular edema:

• Dilated eye exam
• Fluorescein angiogram
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT)
• Amsler grid test

How does a dilated eye exam help in detecting macular edema. During a dilated eye exam, the doctor uses eye drops to widen the pupil, allowing for a clear view of the retina. This simple, painless procedure is often the first step in identifying macular edema and other retinal conditions.

Advanced Diagnostic Techniques

For a more detailed assessment, doctors may use:

• Fluorescein angiogram: This test involves injecting a special dye into the arm, which travels to the eye, allowing the doctor to capture images of blood vessels in the retina.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT): This non-invasive imaging technique provides high-resolution cross-sectional images of the retina, helping to quantify the extent of swelling.
• Amsler grid: This simple test helps detect central vision loss by having the patient look at a grid pattern and identify any distortions or missing areas.

Treatment Approaches for Macular Edema and Eye Swelling

The treatment of macular edema often involves addressing the underlying cause. For instance, in cases of diabetic macular edema, managing diabetes is crucial. However, several specific treatments are available:

Injections

Two types of injections are commonly used:

• Anti-VEGF drugs: These medications can slow down or reverse macular edema.
• Steroids: These help reduce swelling in the retina.

How effective are eye injections in treating macular edema. Eye injections have shown significant success in managing macular edema, with many patients experiencing improved vision and reduced swelling. The choice between anti-VEGF drugs and steroids depends on the individual case and the underlying cause of the edema.

Laser Treatment

Laser therapy can be used to seal leaking blood vessels in the retina. This treatment is often employed in cases of diabetic macular edema or retinal vein occlusion.

Vitrectomy

In some cases, a surgical procedure called vitrectomy may be necessary. This involves removing the vitreous gel from the eye to reduce traction on the retina and alleviate swelling.

Managing Eye Swelling: Beyond Macular Edema

While macular edema is a significant cause of eye swelling, other conditions can also lead to swollen eyes. Understanding these causes and their treatments is crucial for comprehensive eye care.

Allergic Reactions

Allergies can cause eye swelling, redness, and itching. Treatment often involves:

• Antihistamine eye drops
• Cold compresses
• Avoiding allergens

When should you seek medical attention for allergy-related eye swelling. If over-the-counter treatments don’t provide relief, or if the swelling is severe or accompanied by other symptoms like vision changes or pain, it’s important to consult an eye doctor or allergist.

Infections

Various eye infections can cause swelling, including:

• Conjunctivitis (pink eye)
• Orbital cellulitis
• Styes

Treatment typically involves antibiotics, either topical or oral, depending on the severity and type of infection.

Trauma

Eye injuries can lead to swelling. Management may include:

• Ice packs to reduce swelling
• Pain relievers
• Medical evaluation to rule out serious damage

Preventing Eye Swelling and Maintaining Eye Health

Preventing eye swelling often involves maintaining overall eye health and addressing underlying conditions. Some strategies include:

• Regular eye exams, especially for those with diabetes or other risk factors
• Proper management of systemic conditions like diabetes and hypertension
• Protecting eyes from trauma during sports or hazardous activities
• Practicing good hygiene to prevent infections
• Managing allergies effectively

How often should one have a comprehensive eye exam. For adults with no risk factors, a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years is generally recommended. However, those with diabetes, a family history of eye disease, or other risk factors may need more frequent exams as advised by their eye doctor.

Innovative Treatments and Future Directions in Eye Swelling Management

Research in ophthalmology continues to advance, offering new hope for those suffering from eye swelling and related conditions. Some promising areas include:

Gene Therapy

For genetic conditions like retinitis pigmentosa that can lead to macular edema, gene therapy shows potential in addressing the root cause of the disease.

Sustained-Release Drug Delivery Systems

Researchers are developing implants and other methods to deliver medications over extended periods, reducing the need for frequent injections in conditions like diabetic macular edema.

Combination Therapies

Combining different treatment modalities, such as anti-VEGF injections with laser therapy, may offer enhanced efficacy in managing macular edema and other causes of eye swelling.

How might these advancements impact the future of eye swelling treatment. These innovative approaches have the potential to improve treatment outcomes, reduce the frequency of interventions, and possibly even prevent the development of conditions that lead to eye swelling in susceptible individuals.

Living with Eye Swelling: Coping Strategies and Support

For individuals dealing with chronic eye swelling or vision changes due to conditions like macular edema, developing coping strategies is crucial. Some helpful approaches include:

• Utilizing low vision aids and adaptive technologies
• Participating in support groups for people with similar conditions
• Working with occupational therapists to develop strategies for daily living
• Maintaining open communication with healthcare providers about symptoms and treatment efficacy

What role does emotional support play in managing chronic eye conditions. Emotional support is vital in coping with the challenges of vision changes. Support groups, counseling, and family involvement can significantly improve quality of life and treatment adherence for those dealing with eye swelling and related vision problems.

Lifestyle Modifications

Certain lifestyle changes can help manage eye swelling and promote overall eye health:

• Maintaining a balanced diet rich in eye-healthy nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins C and E, and zinc
• Staying hydrated to support proper eye function
• Getting regular exercise, which can improve circulation and potentially benefit eye health
• Quitting smoking, as it’s a risk factor for many eye conditions
• Managing screen time and practicing the 20-20-20 rule (every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds) to reduce eye strain

How can diet specifically impact eye health and swelling. A nutrient-rich diet can support overall eye health by providing essential vitamins and minerals that protect against oxidative stress and inflammation. For instance, foods high in antioxidants may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration, while omega-3 fatty acids can support retinal health and potentially reduce inflammation.

The Role of Regular Monitoring in Managing Eye Swelling

Consistent monitoring is crucial in effectively managing eye swelling, particularly for chronic conditions like macular edema. This involves:

• Regular follow-up appointments with eye care professionals
• Adhering to recommended treatment schedules, such as injection timelines
• Self-monitoring of vision changes and reporting any new symptoms promptly
• Periodic imaging tests to track the progression or improvement of swelling

Why is consistent monitoring so important in managing eye swelling. Regular monitoring allows for timely adjustments to treatment plans, early detection of any worsening of the condition, and helps maintain the best possible vision outcomes. It also provides valuable data for healthcare providers to assess the long-term effectiveness of treatments.

Emerging Technologies in Eye Monitoring

Advancements in technology are making it easier for patients to monitor their eye health:

• Home-based OCT devices for self-monitoring of retinal changes
• Smartphone apps for tracking vision changes and medication schedules
• Telemedicine platforms for remote consultations with eye care professionals

These technologies can enhance patient engagement in their eye care and provide more frequent data points for healthcare providers to assess.

Eye swelling, particularly in the form of macular edema, presents significant challenges in eye health. However, with early detection, appropriate treatment, and consistent management, many individuals can maintain good vision and quality of life. As research continues to advance, new treatments and technologies offer hope for even better outcomes in the future. By staying informed, adhering to treatment plans, and maintaining regular check-ups, those affected by eye swelling can take proactive steps towards preserving their vision and overall eye health.

Macular Edema | National Eye Institute

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At a glance: Macular Edema

What is macular edema?

Macular edema is swelling in part of the retina (the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of your eye). People with macular edema may have blurry vision, but treatment can help reduce the swelling and prevent vision loss.

What are the symptoms of macular edema?

Blurry vision and vision that gets worse over time are the main symptoms of macular edema.

You may also notice that:

• Objects look wavy, especially when you look straight ahead
• Objects look like they’re different sizes if you look out of 1 eye and then the other
• Colors look dull or faded

If you only have macular edema in 1 eye, it may take longer for you to notice changes to your vision.

For some people, macular edema only causes mild blurry vision. For others, it causes more severe central vision loss, which can make it hard to do everyday activities like reading and driving.  

What causes macular edema?

Macular edema happens when blood vessels leak into a part of the retina called the macula. This makes the macula swell, causing blurry vision.

There are many different conditions that can cause macular edema. The most common one is diabetic retinopathy — an eye condition that causes vision loss in people with diabetes. When diabetic retinopathy causes macular edema, it’s called diabetic macular edema (DME).

If you have diabetic retinopathy, managing your diabetes can help prevent or delay vision loss. It’s also important to get a dilated eye exam at least once a year.

Learn more about diabetic retinopathy

Other causes of macular edema include: 

• Age-related macular degeneration (AMD). In a certain type of AMD called wet (or neovascular) AMD, abnormal blood vessels in the macula leak fluid into or under the retina, which can cause swelling in the macula. Learn more about AMD.
• Retinitis pigmentosa (RP). RP is a genetic disease. Some people with RP can also have swelling in the macula. Learn more about RP.
• Uveitis. Uveitis is inflammation inside the eye that happens when the immune system attacks eye tissue. It can cause swelling in any part of the eye, including the macula. Learn more about uveitis.
• Blocked veins in the retina (retinal vein occlusion). When veins in the retina are blocked, blood can’t drain the way it should and it leaks into the macula — which can cause swelling. Learn more about central retinal vein occlusion.
• Eye surgery. Some people develop macular edema after having surgery to treat another eye condition, like cataracts. This swelling is often mild, but it’s still important to get treatment right away to help prevent future vision loss.
• Certain medicines. Some medicines, like medicines to treat glaucoma, can cause macular edema as a side effect.

How will my eye doctor check for macular edema?

Eye doctors can check for macular edema as part of a dilated eye exam. The exam is simple and painless. Your doctor will give you some eye drops to dilate (widen) your pupil and take a look at the retina.

Learn what to expect from a dilated eye exam

If your doctor thinks you have macular edema, they may do more tests to find out for sure. For example:

• Fluorescein angiogram. This test lets the doctor see pictures of the blood vessels in your retina. Your doctor will inject a special dye into your arm. The dye travels through your bloodstream from your arm to your eye. Then the doctor will use a camera to take photos as the dye flows through the blood vessels in your retina.
• Optical coherence tomography (OCT). This test lets the doctor see the back of your eye by taking pictures of the retina and other parts of the eye with a special machine. This can help your doctor see how much swelling there is.
• Amsler grid. This test tells the doctor if you’ve lost any of your central vision. Your doctor will ask you to look at a picture of a grid. If part of the grid looks wavy or dark, you may have central vision loss.   

What’s the treatment for macular edema?

If you have macular edema, finding the cause and treating that condition can help with your macular edema symptoms. For example, if you have diabetic macular edema (DME), taking steps to manage your diabetes can help prevent vision loss. Your doctor may also recommend one of the following treatment options:

Injections. Medicines called anti-VEGF drugs can slow down or reverse macular edema. Medicines called steroids can also help with swelling in the retina. Your doctor will usually inject these medicines into — or very close to — your eye.

Learn more about injections to treat macular edema

Eye drops. Your doctor may recommend a type of eye drops called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs). These can help prevent or treat macular edema caused by surgery. Your doctor may recommend you use these eye drops by themselves or along with steroid eye drops.

Laser treatment. Certain types of laser treatment can be used to treat macular edema when it’s caused by another condition, like diabetes or retinal vein occlusion. Your doctor might recommend laser treatment if injections haven’t worked to treat your macular edema.

Eye surgery. Your doctor may recommend a type of surgery called a vitrectomy if other treatments haven’t worked. During a vitrectomy, your doctor will make very small openings in your eye wall and remove most of the vitreous (gel-like fluid that fills your eye) from your eye with a suction tool. Your doctor may also recommend a surgery to implant a device that makes it easier to get regular injections.

Learn more about vitrectomy

What’s the latest research on macular edema?

NEI funds research that explores better ways to prevent and treat macular edema. Currently, NEI researchers are comparing different anti-VEGF drugs and studying alternatives to anti-VEGF treatment.

NEI also funds research on diseases that cause macular edema, like diabetic retinopathy and retinal vein occlusion.

Get the latest news on NEI-supported macular edema research

Last updated: August 5, 2022

Periorbital edema: Pictures, causes, and treatments

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Puffy eyes, or periorbital edema, refers to swelling around the eyes. The puffiness may occur above the eyes or below, and can have many different causes. Treatment depends on the cause.

When a person has periorbital edema, inflammation around the eye causes fluid to build up. It is this buildup of fluid that gives the eye orbit a puffy appearance. People can have periorbital edema in one or both eyes.

This article explores the various causes and treatments for periorbital edema.

Fast facts on periorbital edema:

• The term refers to inflammation or puffiness around the eyes.
• There are many different causes of the condition from health to lifestyle.
• It is not in itself serious and is usually temporary.

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Share on PinterestPeriorbital edema may affect one or both eyes.
Image credit: Klaus D. Peter, 2008

Periorbital edema is not the same as having bags under the eyes, which is a natural part of aging. Instead, it is a health condition and is normally temporary.

Numerous different causes may lead to inflammation around the eyes, and they all result in a fluid buildup. It is the fluid buildup that gives the eye orbit a swollen appearance.

For some people, periorbital edema may come on slowly. This type of periorbital edema is described as chronic. For others, it may come on quickly and it is then referred to as acute.

Share on PinterestSymptoms of periorbital edema may include swelling around the eye, double vision, and being sensitive to the light.

The symptoms of periorbital edema include:

• mild to severe inflammation around the eye orbit
• double or blurred vision caused by eye puffiness
• redness around the eye, alongside swelling
• bulging of the eyeball
• the white of the eye appearing inflamed
• excess tears being produced
• the eye appearing bruised
• the eyelids being pushed back by inflammation
• being sensitive to light
• pain around the eye or pain when moving the eye
• itchiness around the eye

Anaphylactic shock

If swelling around the eye is accompanied by other facial swelling or difficulty breathing, this may be anaphylactic shock.

Anaphylactic shock is an extreme allergic reaction and is a medical emergency. A person experiencing anaphylactic shock needs emergency medical treatment.

If a person thinks this may be the case, they should call emergency services without delay.

Acute infection

Periorbital edema may be caused by an acute infection. If a person has an acute infection, they may experience additional symptoms. These include:

• fever
• feeling unwell
• nausea
• vomiting
• tender lymph nodes (glands)

Causes can be grouped into the following types:

• medical
• natural
• lifestyle

Medical

Medical causes of periorbital edema include:

• mononucleosis
• allergic reactions
• skin disorders
• thyroid diseases
• periorbital cellulitis
• Chagas disease
• nephrotic syndrome
• trichinosis
• problems with tear ducts
• conjunctivitis
• eye injury
• sinusitis

Natural

Some things that are a natural part of life may cause swelling around the eyes. These include:

• Crying: When a person cries, their tears may irritate around the eyes. This may lead to swelling.
• Aging: As a person ages their body expels more water throughout the day. This can lead to the body trying to retain more fluid, causing swelling around the eyes.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle causes of periorbital edema include:

• Irregular sleep: Getting too much or too little sleep may cause a person’s body to retain fluid.
• Eating too much salt: Having a diet that is high in salt can make the body retain more fluid.
• Drinking too much alcohol: Alcohol can cause dehydration. When a person drinks lots of alcohol frequently, it may cause fluid retention.
• Smoking: Cigarette smoking can cause hormonal imbalances. This may lead to fluid retention.

Share on PinterestA doctor may carry out a blood test to help diagnose periorbital edema.

If a person thinks they may have periorbital edema, they should speak to a doctor. A doctor can help to diagnose the underlying cause.

Tests that a doctor may carry out include:

• blood tests
• allergy tests
• skin biopsy
• imaging tests

First, the doctor will examine the affected area. Then, they may ask general health and lifestyle questions to establish a cause. Depending on the suspected cause, the doctor may then carry out a series of tests.

Often, home remedies or over-the-counter treatments help to reduce symptoms of periorbital edema.

Sometimes periorbital edema has a more serious underlying cause. A doctor can help to diagnose this and recommend appropriate treatment.

If a person suspects swelling around the eyes is caused by an anaphylactic shock, they should seek emergency medical treatment.

Causes of swelling of the eyes | Medical clinic in St. Petersburg

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Quite often it happens that after sleep the right or left eye swells, otherwise you see in the mirror and simultaneous swelling of the right and left eyes. As with other parts of the body, swelling of the eyes is most often due to the accumulation of fluid in the body. The skin around the eyes is quite thin and can hardly hold back swollen internal tissues, so it is the first signal of excess fluid. Such edema appears in the morning, and disappears in the evening.

So if your eyelids swell in the morning, first look for the reasons in your diet and rest. You saw that swelling appeared under the eyes in the morning, and you don’t know how to get rid of them and what to do? For starters, just try to eat less salt, which retains fluid in the body, and not drink at night. However, puffiness can occur due to eye diseases. Treatment for swelling under the eyes depends on their cause.

Swollen eye diseases and their main symptoms

• Conjunctivitis, eye swelling and pain. This is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eye caused by an allergic reaction or an infection. The swelling is slight, but the eye is also very itchy.
• Inflammation of the lacrimal gland. Occurs as a complication after tonsillitis, mumps, respiratory viral infections. The eyelids swell, the palpebral fissure narrows, pain is felt when blinking. Body temperature may rise.
• Inflammation of the hair follicle of the eyelashes (“barley”) – occurs when an infection enters. Usually the upper eyelid of the eye swells, and before treating barley, you need to know that it was not “inflated” (as people still sometimes say), but it arose as a result of an infection, so the mucous membrane of the eye turns red, pain and purulent selection.
• Allergy is the result of contact with an allergen (this can be poor-quality cosmetics, plant pollen or household dust). With allergies, in addition to swelling of the eyes, tearing and a runny nose can be observed. What to do with eye swelling from allergies: first of all, try to avoid contact with the allergen, it is possible to use antihistamines. Severe allergic swelling of the eye requires the intervention of a doctor.
• Respiratory diseases.
• Violations of the internal organs that affect the balance of fluid in the body.
• Blepharitis is an inflammation of the edge of the eyelid caused by the penetration of bacteria (including Staphylococcus aureus). The disease is accompanied by itching, swelling and redness of the eyes (especially in the morning) and fever.

Edema under the eyes, not associated with diseases

• Hereditary factor.
• Fatigue, overwork and insomnia.
• Severe and prolonged eye strain (behind the TV screen and monitor)
• Excessive consumption of alcohol, drugs and smoking.
• Excessive salt intake.
• Cyclic hormonal changes in the female body.
• Injury to the area around the eye. This also includes a bruise, that is, swelling of the eye from a blow, the treatment of which is carried out by many on their own.

Swollen eyes in a child, what to do

It is believed that swelling is an age-related problem, but often swelling under the eyes can be seen even in a child. As a rule, if this is not caused by one of the listed reasons, then swelling of the eyes in the morning after sleep in a child does not need treatment, since it is most likely a matter of non-compliance with the regimen or heavy drinking at night.

How to quickly remove swelling from the eyes at home

If the puffiness is caused by an infectious disease, treatment should be prescribed by a doctor – as a rule, this is a course of antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs. Traditional medicine knows how to quickly remove swelling around the eyes and remove traces caused by fatigue or a stormy party the day before. Compresses from tea leaves, raw potatoes or parsley help well. Applying ice relieves swelling and reduces pain.

Professional treatment of eye edema

Specialists of “Ultraclinic” consider any cosmetic problem from different angles. What can cause swelling of the eyes in your case – is it the result of a disease, lifestyle or heredity? After consultation, a course of therapy may be prescribed. We recommend not just a mechanical removal of puffiness, but the restoration of the functions of the skin and internal organs. First of all, as with any swelling, you need to check whether it is caused by a disease or an allergy.

In the “Ultraclinic” you can pass the necessary tests and get a conclusion. The selection of professional cosmetics is an important component of the treatment of edema. The first answer to the question: why does it swell a lot under the eyes and what to do, usually becomes a trip to a cosmetic store. However, the abundance of products for the skin around the eyes in stores can not always solve the problem of puffiness. And if it is caused by an allergy, then it can intensify under their action. Our experienced cosmetologists will select care products taking into account your features.

Procedures for the treatment of eye edema in the “Ultraclinic”

Care procedures. At the appointment, the cosmetologist will select professional creams and masks specially for you to help reduce swelling, tell you how to remove circles and swelling under the eyes.

Swelling of the eyes, legs, face, how to remove

Do you know the feeling of pressure from your favorite pair of shoes that appears in the late afternoon? Maybe the reflection in the mirror in the morning is not pleasing – the eyes just turn into narrow slits? The dress that was perfectly sitting on you yesterday is mercilessly tight today and it seems that it has become small overnight? This happens when a person begins to swell. What is swelling and why do they appear?

Edema after eating salty food or for other reasons is nothing more than an accumulation in the intercellular space of an excess amount of fluid that is not retained inside the cells. Normally, they contain about 65% of the liquid, while in the intercellular space – the remaining 35%. Outwardly, the accumulation of water between the cells of the body manifests itself as an increase in size – both uniform and individual parts of the body.

Why can a person swell?

If we talk about the reasons why the patient may swell, then here are the most common ones:

• damage to capillaries due to increased blood pressure on their walls from the inside or their pathological permeability, which may be caused by allergies. However, allergic edema can appear on any part of the body. You can recognize them by the redness of the skin and the itching with which they are accompanied;
• swelling of the legs in the ankle area is an alarming symptom that may indicate the development of heart failure in a person. Often, the development of such edema and their further spread to the thigh area is accompanied by more or less pronounced shortness of breath;
• Finally, the cause of swelling of the eyes after eating salty food, as well as swelling of other parts of the body that are not related to the characteristics of the patient’s diet, can be all kinds of nephrological diseases. If the kidneys are not able to cope with their functions, then they “direct” the fluid into the intercellular space. Such edema usually appears in the morning – especially often they are localized on the face. They are soft to the touch and can move with a change in body position. The skin in the area of ​​”renal” edema is dry and has a pale shade.

Remember that edema is not a separate disease, but a symptom that something is wrong with the body! You can get rid of them only by eliminating problems in the body, the presence of which was evidenced by excess fluid in the intercellular space. Self-administration of diuretics is not an option, but dangerous games with your own body, which can cause irreparable harm to it!

How to relieve swelling? Edema treatment in ON CLINIC in Ryazan

How to get rid of edema, which negatively affects not only the patient’s appearance, but also his well-being? It all depends on what provoked their appearance. If a person has no health problems, and swelling is present, then for their disappearance you will have to reconsider your diet. First of all, you need to minimize the consumption of salty, fatty and spicy foods. In addition, people who are concerned about how to reduce swelling should limit their fluid intake – especially for several hours before bedtime.