There are several things you can do if you have a black eye. Apply a cold compress. Apply the cold compress for 15 minutes around your eyes. For the first 24 hours, repeat this process every hour. Warm compresses are also an option. This will increase the blood flow to the eye area and facilitate healing.
Bruising around the eyes
Bruising around the eye is a common injury that causes swelling and pain around the eye. Generally, the bruising will start out red and gradually get darker. Sometimes it can turn brown, green or purple. This can last up to a few days. Be careful not to put too much pressure on the eye until it starts to heal. Warm compresses should be applied for 20 minutes to the affected area. You should refrain from engaging in dangerous activities after the bruising has completely disappeared.
Another simple remedy to help reduce swelling and pain is an ice pack. A frozen bag of vegetables or fruits will work as well. These natural remedies can be used to reduce swelling and pain. But you should avoid putting ice directly on the eyeball because it may leak chemicals into the eye. Tylenol or another over-the-counter pain medication can be used to alleviate the discomfort. However, do not take aspirin because it can cause the swelling to increase.
NSAIDs
NSAIDs are commonly prescribed for black eye pain. These drugs are used to reduce inflammation, pain, and bleeding. If bleeding occurs in the eye, you should take acetaminophen instead of NSAIDs. Although aspirin can be used to treat black eye, it is more risky than NSAIDs.
To reduce swelling and pain, you can also use acetaminophen/ibuprofen. Your doctor might advise you to avoid cold or raw meat, as these can cause infection. A warm compress can be used several times a days to treat the problem.
CAM therapies
While CAM treatments are not as well-researched as conventional drugs for treating black eye, some people say they have noticed some improvement. However, CAM treatments should be used with caution and monitored for side effects. Also, consult your healthcare provider before using CAM therapies. For example, arnica is believed to be effective for treating black eyes, but research has only recently been conducted and the results have not been consistent.
The eye will appear worse before it gets better if it has a dark pigment. If the bleeding is severe or excessive, consult your doctor immediately. Ice should be applied to the eye in the interim, but you must not apply pressure. Applying makeup to the eye should be avoided if it is red or swelling. This can cause redness and irritation.
What time to visit a doctor following a black-colored eye?
Although black eye problems are often self-healing, it is still a good idea to visit a doctor. If needed, your doctor will prescribe pain medication and ice. They can also perform X-rays of the head and face to determine if there are any fractures. If the injury is more severe, your doctor may refer you to an ophthalmologist or a neurosurgeon.
You can apply ice to your eye, and then apply a moist cloth to the area. If the black eye is not severe and does not cause you pain, this will be sufficient. An excellent choice is a commercial icepack, but you could also use a frozen bag with vegetables. It is important to keep your eye as cold and as dry as possible as this will help reduce swelling. You should also avoid activities that may further harm the eye. You can use pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, to relieve pain. However, do not press or poke your eye, as this can cause damage to the cornea.