Dealing with a black eye

Fact Checked

A black eye is caused by bleeding under the skin around the eye. It can indicate a more serious injury such as internal injury to the eye or a fracture around the eye which is characterized by double vision, bruising around both eyes and bleeding from the nose.

Causes of black eye

• Injury to the face or head and swelling and discoloration of the area.
• Head injuries such as concussion

Symptoms

• Swelling or pain in the area of the eye
• Headaches
• Difficulty in opening the eye
• The area around the eye becomes discolored
• Vomiting in severe cases
• Bruising around the affected eye
• Bleeding from the nose or eye
• Presence of blood in the white part of the eye
• Double vision
• The eye starts to drain fluids and the eyeball looks deformed
• A foreign object might be present inside the eyeball

Treatment

• Apply a cold compress on the affected area immediately after the injury to lessen the swelling and pain. The cold temperature will constrict the blood vessels and lessen or slow down the bleeding. Apply an ice pack on the eye for at least 20 minutes every hour and apply gentle pressure on the eye.
• Avoid unnecessary strain or pressure by forcing the eye to open while it is still swollen. Avoid poking or pressing the ice pack strongly on the eye to prevent further damage that can worsen the condition.
• Do not wear glasses until the swelling is reduced to prevent pressure around the nose and eye.
• Avoid performing athletic activities that can worsen the condition. Wait until the swelling totally settles.
• Use the prescribed over-the-counter pain medication such as acetaminophen and aspirin to reduce the pain and inflammation.
• When the swelling subsides, apply moist heat. Moist heat can be in the form of a warm washcloth and gently apply on the bruise to increase the flow of blood in the area. It will lessen the accumulation of blood under the eye and dark discoloration on the area around the eye. Repeat several times daily for several days.
• When lying down, elevate the head above the level of the heart to lessen the swelling of the affected area. Place 2 pillows under the head to keep it elevated.
• Use mild soap and water in cleaning any cuts around the eyes to prevent bacterial infection that can worsen the condition.

Tips

• Wear protective gear when playing sports or work-related activities for protection against black eye and other serious injuries.
• Wear seat belts while driving and wear helmets when riding bicycle or motorcycle.

More Information

The details posted on this page on a black eye is for learning purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage eye injuries, enroll in a first aid course with one of our training providers.

FACT CHECK

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_eye

https://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/black-eye.htm

https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/understanding-black-eye-symptoms