Severely Swollen Eyes
I'm a 36-year-old and have been experiencing some itchiness and dryness in my eyes, which led to frequent rubbing. This morning, I discovered that my eyes are almost completely shut due to swelling. I'm trying to decide whether it's worth it to head into work or stay home instead.
Answers (1)
6/26/2025, 4:30:44 PM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant swelling and discomfort in your eyes, likely due to itching and dryness. This could be a reaction to allergens, irritants, or even an infection. Given the severity of the swelling and its impact on your ability to function, it’s best to prioritize your health.
Explanation:
Swollen eyes can be caused by various factors such as allergies, inflammation, or infections. Rubbing your eyes, especially when irritated, can exacerbate the problem. The fact that your eyes are almost completely shut means that you may need to restrict activities (like going to work) until your symptoms improve.
Next Steps:
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Stay Home: Given the severity of your symptoms, it would be wise to stay home and rest your eyes. This will also reduce the chance of spreading any potential infection to others if that’s the cause.
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Cold Compress: Apply a clean, cold compress to your closed eyelids for 10-15 minutes several times throughout the day. This can help reduce swelling and soothe discomfort.
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Avoid Rubbing Your Eyes: Try to minimize any further rubbing, as this can worsen swelling and irritation.
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Hydration: Drink plenty of water and consider using artificial tears (eye drops) to relieve dryness, if you have them on hand.
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Identify Triggers: Pay attention to what may have caused this reaction. Consider if you've been exposed to allergens (like pet dander, pollen, or dust) recently.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on your symptoms. If the swelling does not start to improve within a day or two, or if you begin to experience pain, vision changes, or discharge from the eyes, consider seeking medical attention.
Feel better soon, and take care of yourself! Let me know if you have any other questions or need further information.
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