Puffy eyelids

Swollen eyelids are eyelids that are thicker and more puffy than usual. The swelling is usually caused by fluid building up in the loose connective tissue around the eyes. This tissue can easily retain fluid, making the eyelid look puffy or swollen.

The swelling may occur in one eyelid or both, and may affect the upper or lower eyelid. Sometimes the swelling is accompanied by other symptoms such as redness, itching, pain, watery eyes or a feeling of tightness.

Possible causes

Puffy eyelids can have various causes. Common ones include:

• Allergies: pollen, house dust mites, pets or cosmetics can trigger an allergic reaction, causing itching and swelling.
• Irritation: smoke, wind, chlorinated water or prolonged screen use can irritate the eyes and cause slight swelling.
• Infection: inflammation of the eyelid, the lacrimal gland or the conjunctiva can lead to swelling, redness and, in some cases, pus.
• Fluid build-up: not getting enough sleep, eating too much salt, crying or lying down can cause temporary fluid build-up around the eyes.
• Trauma: a knock, insect bite or other injury can cause the eyelid to swell.
• Underlying conditions: sometimes persistent or severe swelling may indicate an eye condition or a general health problem.

When is it important to have it checked?

Mild, temporary swelling after a bad night’s sleep or after crying is usually harmless. Swelling that lasts longer, is accompanied by pain, a fever, a change in your vision, or where the eye itself is red and irritated, requires assessment by your optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist.

What can you do yourself if you have mild swelling?

In cases of mild, temporary swelling with no other symptoms, you can sometimes take steps yourself to improve your comfort:

• Place a cool, clean cloth over your closed eyelids; this may help to reduce the swelling.
• Make sure you get enough sleep and drink plenty of water.
• Avoid rubbing your eyes, as this can make the irritation worse.
• If you wear contact lenses and your eyes feel irritated or swollen, take the lenses out for a while and wear your glasses instead.

These tips are intended for mild discomfort. They are not a substitute for medical advice and are not suitable for persistent or severe symptoms.

Contact lenses and puffy eyelids

If your eyelids are swollen and you wear contact lenses, it may be advisable to stop wearing them temporarily until the swelling has subsided. A swollen eyelid can make inserting and wearing lenses uncomfortable and may sometimes indicate an irritation or infection, in which case it is best to stop wearing lenses for a while.

If you experience recurring swelling or irritation when wearing contact lenses, discuss this with your optician or optometrist. Sometimes a different lens or a different care routine can help.

When should you see an optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist?

Have swollen eyelids assessed if:

• if the swelling does not subside within a day or two;
• if you experience pain, develop a fever or notice a change in your vision;
• the eye itself is red, feels sore or is producing discharge;
• the swelling keeps returning for no apparent reason;
• you have suffered a blow or injury to your eye.

If you have any symptoms or concerns, please have them assessed by your optician, optometrist or ophthalmologist.