Key Takeaways
- Swelling under one eye can result from a variety of factors, including minor irritations, infections, or underlying medical conditions.
- Early evaluation and treatment are crucial to prevent complications and ensure proper eye health, especially if swelling is persistent or painful.
- Lifestyle modifications, preventive care, and home remedies can reduce the frequency and severity of under-eye swelling and improve overall comfort.
- For sudden, severe, or unexplained swelling, our Anderson Mill emergency room offers immediate professional evaluation and treatment to address the issue safely and effectively.
What Causes Swelling Under One Eye
Swelling under one eye, known as periorbital edema, can appear as puffiness, fluid retention, or localized inflammation. While temporary swelling is usually harmless, persistent or severe swelling may signal an underlying health issue. According to a review on peripheral edema in adults, about 19%–20% experience some form of fluid retention, highlighting the importance of understanding and managing periorbital swelling.
1. Allergic Reactions
Allergic reactions occur when the immune system overreacts to substances like pollen, dust, pet dander, or certain foods. This reaction can cause inflammation and fluid accumulation in the delicate tissue around the eyes, leading to swelling under one eye. Individuals may also experience itching, redness, and watery eyes, and the swelling may worsen after exposure to the allergen.
• Treatment
Treatment for allergic reactions focuses on reducing inflammation and preventing future exposure. Cold compresses help alleviate puffiness, while maintaining proper eye hygiene and avoiding allergens prevents recurrence. Antihistamines and anti-inflammatory eye drops may be prescribed to control symptoms.
2. Insect Bites or Stings
Bites or stings near the eye introduce foreign substances or toxins that trigger the body’s inflammatory response. This can result in a localized swollen eye, sometimes accompanied by redness, tenderness, and discomfort. The swelling can develop quickly and may affect vision if severe.
• Treatment
Management includes reducing inflammation and preventing infection. Cold compresses applied immediately minimize swelling, and keeping the area clean prevents further irritation. Topical antihistamines or anti-inflammatory medications may be used when necessary. Severe reactions or rapidly increasing swelling require prompt medical attention.
Read More: How to Soothe Irritated Skin Around Eyes for additional tips on reducing puffiness and irritation.
3. Sinus Infections (Sinusitis)
Sinus infections cause inflammation of the sinus cavities, which can obstruct normal fluid drainage and lead to swelling beneath the eyes. Swelling is often accompanied by facial pressure, nasal congestion, and tenderness around the cheeks and eyes. Chronic or untreated sinusitis can exacerbate the periorbital swelling.
• Treatment For Sinus Infections
Treatment focuses on addressing both the infection and the swelling. Decongestants and nasal sprays relieve sinus pressure, saline irrigation clears blocked passages, and warm compresses ease discomfort. Antibiotics may be prescribed for bacterial infections, and rest with adequate hydration supports recovery.
4. Trauma or Injury
Physical trauma, such as a fall, blow, or accident, can damage the delicate tissues around the eye. This often leads to a swollen appearance, bruising, and tenderness. In some cases, internal bleeding within the tissues may worsen the swelling.
• Trauma or Injury Treatment
Treatment aims to reduce inflammation and prevent further damage. Ice packs applied during the first 24–48 hours help control swelling, while elevating the head minimizes fluid buildup. Anti-inflammatory medications manage pain, and avoiding pressure or rubbing on the injured area is important.
5. Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Conjunctivitis is the inflammation or infection of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane covering the eye. This can result in a swollen eye, redness, discharge, and irritation. Allergic conjunctivitis, bacterial, or viral causes can all lead to swelling beneath the eyes. It may also cause watery eyes and discomfort around the eyelids.
• Treatment For Pink Eye
Treatment depends on the cause and aims to reduce swelling while preventing the spread. Proper eye hygiene and cold compresses relieve discomfort. Antibiotic drops are used for bacterial cases, antihistamine drops for allergic conjunctivitis, and supportive care, including lubricating drops, helps ease viral symptoms.
6. Kidney Disorders
Kidney dysfunction can impair the body’s ability to filter fluids, resulting in fluid retention. Oedema periorbital and under-eye swelling are common signs, particularly noticeable in the morning. This swelling may indicate a more systemic health issue requiring medical evaluation.
• Kidney Disorders Treatment
Managing kidney-related swelling combines lifestyle measures with medical treatment. Reducing salt intake and monitoring fluid consumption helps control retention. Medications may be prescribed to support kidney function, and diuretics can be used under supervision to reduce fluid buildup.
7. Thyroid Eye Disease
Thyroid imbalances, particularly in hyperthyroidism or Graves’ disease, can affect the eye muscles and tissue. This leads to inflammation, fluid buildup, and swelling under one eye. Other symptoms may include bulging eyes, discomfort, and vision disturbances.
• Thyroid Eye Disease Treatment
Treatment focuses on controlling thyroid function and reducing inflammation. Medications regulate thyroid levels, while corticosteroids reduce swelling. Severe cases may require surgery to correct tissue changes and protect vision. Patients may benefit from protective measures like lubricating eye drops or moisture chambers to prevent corneal exposure and irritation.
8. Chalazion or Stye
A chalazion or stye occurs when oil glands in the eyelid become blocked or infected. This causes localized swelling under one eye, tenderness, and sometimes redness. These conditions are usually benign but can be uncomfortable.
• Treatment For Chalazion
Treatment involves proper eyelid hygiene and symptom relief. Warm compresses soften blocked glands and a gentle massage promotes drainage. Topical antibiotics are used if infection develops. Persistent or large chalazions may require minor surgical drainage. Monitoring the area for recurrence and maintaining eyelid cleanliness helps prevent future episodes.
When Is Under-Eye Swelling Dangerous?
Under-eye swelling becomes concerning when it appears suddenly, worsens rapidly, or is accompanied by symptoms such as vision changes, fever, or severe pain. These signs may indicate infections, orbital cellulitis, allergic reactions, or underlying medical conditions that need urgent evaluation.
Dangerous Signs To Watch For:
- Severe or increasing pain around the eye.
- Sudden blurry, double, or reduced vision.
- Fever, chills, or signs of infection.
- Redness spreads around the eye.
- Difficulty moving the eye or eye bulging.
- Swelling after injury accompanied by vision changes.
- Persistent swelling lasting more than 48–72 hours.
If you notice these signs or experience persistent swelling, contact Austin Emergency Center for prompt evaluation and expert care.
How to Prevent Eye Swelling Naturally
Natural prevention strategies help reduce inflammation, support eye health, and lower the chances of developing swelling under one eye. Consistent habits such as proper sleep, hydration, and hygiene play a major role. Avoiding irritants and allergens also helps minimize morning swelling and fluid retention.
Natural Ways To Prevent Eye Swelling:
- Maintain regular sleep patterns to prevent fluid retention under the eyes.
- Stay hydrated to reduce salt-induced puffiness.
- Limit dietary sodium to prevent fluid accumulation.
- Use cool compresses in the morning to reduce swelling.
- Keep bedding and pillowcases clean to reduce allergen exposure.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes to prevent irritation or injury.
- Elevate your head during sleep to prevent overnight fluid pooling.
Austin Emergency Center: Under-Eye Swelling Care
If you’re experiencing persistent or sudden swelling under one eye, it could indicate allergies, infections, injuries, or underlying medical conditions. Understanding what causes swelling under one eye and seeking early evaluation, emergency care, and proper treatment helps reduce swelling, prevent complications, and protect your eye health.
At Austin Emergency Center, our experienced team provides prompt, professional care for individuals with swelling under one eye, puffiness, or related symptoms. We offer personalized assessments, treatment plans, and follow-up support to help restore comfort and eye health. Contact us today for trusted care and expert guidance.