What is Black eye?
- A bruise in the tissues around the eye/eyes
- Results from injury to face/head
- Causes swelling and dark coloration of eye
- Hence, "black eye"
- Usually a minor problem
- Sometimes it indicates a serious injury
- One or both eye affected
Causes
- Blow to eye / nose
- Facial surgical procedures
- Allergies
- Bites
Symptoms
- Discoloration of eye
- Swelling
- Blow to nose causes swelling of eye
- Head injuries may blacken/swell eyes
- Pain
- Blurry vision due to swelling
- Headache
Symptoms of severity
- Persistent headache
- Double vision
- Inability to move eye/eyes
- Blood on eye surface
- Blood/fluid issue from nose, ears
- Loss of consciousness
- Loss of sight
Treatment
- Black eyes generally heals within a few days
- Consult with specialist for serious injuries
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Home remedy
- Apply ice for 20 min/hour, first two days
- If not better, apply warm compress once in two hours
- Do not use ice directly
- Wrap ice in cloth or use commercial pack
- Continue cold compress till severity eases
- Take acetaminophen, for pain relief
- Avoid aspirins / non-steroidal medications
- These medications may cause bleeding
- Stay away from strenuous activity
- See a medical specialist as soon as possible
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Treatment for complications
- For head injuries-Neurosurgeon
- For nose injuries-ENT specialist
- For eye injuries-Ophthalmologist
- For face
- Injuries/disfigurement-Plastic surgeon
- Carry out follow-up as advised by doctor
Prevention
- Protect your eyes always
- Ensure safety at home by removing unwanted objects
- Avoid fist fights
