Eyelid Edema

Eyes are one of the most sensitive parts of human body. A slight irritation and infection of the eyes can lead to several eye disorders. While some of these disorders can affect the inner parts of the eyes like, cornea or retina, others can affect the eyelid, and cause swelling and inflammation. The disorders that affect the eyelid are generally referred as eyelid disorders. Eyelid edema is one such common eyelid disorder, that is caused by accumulation of fluid in the eyelid. It can be unilateral or bilateral eyelid edema. Again, it can affect the upper eyelid or lower eyelid and accordingly.

Eyelid Edema Causes and Symptoms

There can be several factors that can cause swelling of the eyelid. Most often, it is the result of trauma, and allergic reactions to a particular allergen like, pollen or dust, as well as to some specific foods and drugs. Even allergies to certain chemicals used in the eye make up products can also trigger inflammation and swelling of the eyelid. Similarly, bacterial infections of the eye can also cause this condition. In addition to these, some other causes are, blepharitis, conjunctivitis or pink eye, chalazion, stye, trichinosis and ocular herpes.

Blepharitis causes inflammation and crusting of the margins of the eyelid. Conjunctivitis, mainly affects the conjunctiva and inner surface of the eyelid, and can be caused by bacterial and viral infection. Eye stye cause is the bacterial infection of the sebaceous gland of the eye, while chalazion is a cyst on the eyelid, that develops due to the blockage of the Meibomian or tear gland. On the other hand, trichinosis is a disease, caused by infestation of trichina larvae. The larvae of the trichina, a parasitic nematode can be contacted by the consumption of inadequately cooked meat, especially pork. Inflammation and swelling of the eyelid and around the eye is the most common symptoms. Sometimes, redness and pain can be experienced along with swelling. Itching and burning sensation can be present, especially if swelling is caused by insect bites.

Eyelid Edema Treatment

The treatment depends on whether it is caused by infection, or minor trauma and allergies. Minor inflammation and swelling of the eyelid, not caused by infection can respond to home remedies like, cold compression. But, a severe case of inflammation can require steroid creams and immunosuppressive drugs for its cure. However, excessive use of steroids can cause cataracts, along with increasing the intraocular pressure. Therefore, it is imperative to take adequate care and precaution, to make sure that steroid creams do not get into the eyes. If it is caused by allergies, then it is important to identify the specific allergens. The best way to prevent further allergic reactions is to avoid the allergens and irritants in the future.

It is very important to rule out the possibility of any kind of eye infection being associated with eyelid edema. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to visit a physician or ophthalmologist, on observing any kind of inflammation and swelling of the eyelid. One major complication is orbital cellulitis, which refers to an infection of the tissues surrounding the eye. The condition can damage the optic nerves to cause loss of vision. Therefore, eyelid edema especially chronic case should be evaluated and treated on time, to prevent such complications. Also important is to take proper eye care with regular washing, to make sure that no foreign particles like dust, plant allergens and residues of eye make up enter the eye.