When it comes to puffy eyelids, many women find themselves more concerned with this problem, even though the condition doesn’t discriminate between genders. Puffy eyelids make eyes look swollen and tired, and depending on the severity of the problem, it can be difficult to open or close ones eyes completely. There are many causes for puffy eyelids, some of which are avoidable while others are not. There are also many different treatment methods you can conduct at home to reduce the amount of puffiness in your eyelids. We’ll go over the causes, symptoms and treatment methods below.
Causes of Puffy Eyelids
For most of us, eyelids don’t become puffy on their own. There are numerous different causes as to why one’s eyelids and the area around the eyes become puffy, such as:
Lack of Sleep
Allergies
Illness
Crying
High Blood Pressure
Hormonal Imbalances
Too Much Salt in Diet
Too Much Artificial Sweetner in Diet
Edema, or Fluid Retention
Make-up
Contact Lenses
Environment Irritants
Genetics and Heredity
Medication
Dehydration
Many pregnant women experience puffy eyelids and puffy eyes while they’re pregnant. This is normal and usually due to hormone fluctuations their bodies experience. As with other parts of their body, such as feet, ankles and face, a pregnant woman’s eyelids retain water and puff up.
Symptoms of Puffy Eyelids
The most obvious symptom of a puffy eyelid is the puffiness itself. However, sometimes the puffiness is at a minimum, and there are other symptoms you should be aware of:
Swelling or Swollen Eyelids
Bags or Excessive Skin Under Eyes
Itchy Eyes
Red, Bloodshot Eyes
Irritated Eyes
Inability to Open or Close Eyes Completely
Difficulty Blinking
Tenderness
Pain, Either Mild or Severe
Many of these symptoms lead to puffy eyes, especially if you begin to touch, rub or make contact with your eyelids. Generally, touching leads to rubbing and rubbing leads to puffiness, so if you are experiencing any of these symptoms do your best to leave your eyes and eyelids alone until treatment is sought after. If you are experiencing all of these symptoms, or if your puffy eyelids are severe, then you should contact your doctor immediately.
Treatment for Puffy Eyelids
There are many different at-home methods of treatment you can do before seeking medical attention. In fact, in most cases, doctors will try or recommend these same procedures listed below before prescribing you medication. For most people the puffiness is usually temporary and goes away within minutes or hours. Try these at-home methods first to try and reduce the puffiness of your eyelids:
Over-The-Counter Hemorrhoid Cream, it contains an anti-inflammatory agent
Anti-Inflammatory creams
Cold Water
Cold Clothes
Ice Packs
Cucumbers
Gently Tap Puffy Eyelids, helps built-up fluid release and drain
Drink Water
Avoid Artificial Sweetners
Avoid Salt
Get More Sleep
Consume More Fatty Acids like Flax Seed or Fatty Fish
If you feel like your condition is severe enough and it hasn’t impaired your vision, or if there is someone around to drive you, seek medical attention immediately. Every person is different and has different needs. However, keep in mind that in most cases, the puffiness is only temporary and can usually be treated in the privacy of your own home.
