Black eye - First Aid and Emergency Treatment Guide

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

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

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