What Are the Treatments for Swollen Eyes?

Having a swollen eye doesn't generally signify a more serious underlying condition. Swollen eyes can typically be attributed to one of three temporary conditions caused by bacterial infections: a stye, a chalazion or pink eye. These bacterial infections can be brought about by makeup, rubbing the eye with dirty hands or other direct exposure to harmful bacteria.

Stye

• A stye is brought about by a bacterial infection in the sebaceous glands. Styes typically look like small pimples. However, do not feel tempted to pop the stye, because that will lead to more pain and possibly spread the infection. Though a stye typically dissipates without treatment within a few days, you can speed up the process by using a folk remedy.

  Steep a tea bag (any kind of herbal tea) in hot water, then wring it out until no water drips when the tea bag is pressed. Place the warm tea bag on the eyelid until it cools. Do this twice a day until the stye bursts.

Chalazion

• A chalazion is a lump on the inner part of the eyelid due to blockage of one of the glands that lubricates the eye. A chalazion is large and painless and typically doesn't signify a more serious underlying condition. However, a consultation with your doctor is advised to rule out skin cancer or other harmful conditions.

  According to the New York Times, a chalazion can last for more than a month. They can be treated at home by using a warm compress. Create a warm compress by soaking a facecloth in warm tap water. Don't heat the facecloth in the microwave or dip it in boiling water, as this will burn your eye. Apply to the affected eye a minimum of four times per day for up to 15 minutes.

Pink Eye

• Pink eye is most notable for irritating the eye and causing a bloodshot appearance in the whites of the eye. Another common symptom of bacterial pink eye is swelling of the eyelid. This swelling can be uncomfortable and may sometimes make even effortless tasks like blinking a hassle. Treat your pink eye by making an eye cleansing solution of baby shampoo and water. Fill a cup with 10 tablespoons of lukewarm water and one tablespoon of baby shampoo. Soak a cotton ball in the solution and gently rub over eyelashes.