How to Reduce the Swelling of a Black Eye

A black eye is the result of blood seeping into the tissue after a blow to the area around the eye. The bruising and swelling can be a badge of courage to some and an embarrassment to others. Keep the swelling and bruising at a minimum when it comes to this common injury.

Instructions

• 1

  Assess the injury. Examine the tissue around the eye, the eyeball itself to evaluate the damage. Seek medical attention if the individual experiences unconsciousness for any length of time.

• 2

  Place a cold can of soda against the cheek and forehead near the eye. Decrease bruising by holding the soda can against the tissue to encourage the blood vessels to constrict and lessen the flow of blood into the tissue.

• 3

  Put a small amount crushed ice in a re-sealable plastic bag. Hold the bag of ice very gently against the eye area without applying any pressure to the eye itself.

• 4

  Keep the ice on the eye for 10 minutes out of every 15 minutes. Use this method for 2 to 3 hours following the injury. Refresh the ice as needed.

• 5

  Dab a runny nose that results from the injury to avoid bursting additional delicate blood vessels by blowing it. Use cotton wadding if the nose is running profusely or bleeding.

• 6

  Take a non-aspirin product to relieve the pain. Expect some bruising and swelling, which should diminish in a few days. See a physician if pain persists or if vision is affected.