Periorbital Edema

In medical terminology, the accumulation of excessive amounts of fluid under the surface of the skin is referred to as edema. There are many types of edema, which are classified on the basis of location of the fluid retention. When accumulation of an abnormal amount of fluid takes place around the periphery of the eye sockets, one is said to suffer from periorbital edema. This condition is also commonly known as puffy eyes. While a little puffiness is not really a cause of serious concern and is generally attributed to lifestyle-related issues such as sleep deprivation or poor dietary habits, buildup of fluid might be more than a cause of cosmetic concern. This might be attributed to serious medical conditions. If puffiness under eyes is affecting your facial beauty and robbing you off your good looks, you must get yourself medically examined. Once the underlying cause of puffiness is ascertained, doctors can suggest ways to help you get rid of puffiness around your eyes.

Periorbital Edema

Causes

Though many people get puffy eyes from crying, that isn't something to be worried about. Once you are in a better state of mind, the puffiness resolves on its own. A high intake of salt is surely one of them. Excessive consumption of alcohol has been found to be a common reason for the buildup of fluid under the subcutaneous tissues in adults. Consuming processed or salty foods also makes one highly susceptible to fluid retention. Poor dietary habits is one of the most common causes of puffy eyes in children. In case of women, hormonal changes during pregnancy or menstruation might also be responsible for fluid retention in the tissues. As mentioned earlier, sleep deprivation could cause puffiness around the eyes. Facial swelling or swelling around the eyes could also be caused due to allergic reactions. At times, fragile capillaries under the eyes start leaking and this causes fluid to accumulate under the eyes. As mentioned earlier, certain serious medical conditions could also be responsible for fluid retention under the eyes. Kidney infections, hypertension and thyroid problems could cause fluid retention in body. Puffiness of eyes could also be a symptom of eye infections. Puffy eyes might not always be attributed to fluid retention. At times, puffy eyes might be just a sign of aging. As we age, the decreased production of elastin and collagen causes the skin to lose its firmness and elasticity, as a result, one might develop eye bags.

Treatment

Since this condition could be caused due to various reasons, it is important to determine the underlying cause. Since sleep deprivation is one of the most common causes of puffiness under eyes, getting adequate sleep is very important. Cutting down on your intake of salt would surely prove beneficial. Sometimes, fluid buildup under the skin might be caused due to vitamin deficiencies. You must switch to a healthy diet that provides your body with all the required nutrients. Application of cold compresses is an effective home remedy for reducing puffiness under eyes. It will surely provide relief and bring down the swelling. Applying cold cucumber slices on the eyes is one of the most effective tried-and-tested home remedies for puffy eyes. You can also use a medicated eye cream for reducing puffiness around the eyes, but if these remedies don't work, it would be best to get yourself medically examined. Once the doctors are able to ascertain the underlying cause of the fluid buildup, they can start treating the condition.

Though one can follow home remedies for puffy eyes, it would be best to consult a doctor. At times, swelling could be a symptom of an underlying condition. Once the medical condition resolves, the problem of puffy eyes will resolve on its own.