Understanding Black Eye - Treatment

What Are the Treatments for a Black Eye?

To treat a black eye, begin with basic first aid. Applying something cold to a black eye works in two ways: It helps to reduce swelling and it constricts blood vessels, which in turn stops the internal bleeding. Putting a cold steak on a black eye is a needlessly expensive variation. You can save money by making your own crushed ice pack or grab a package of frozen vegetables, which works just as well.

Besides cold treatment, there's not much that can be done for a black eye except to avoid doing anything that could cause further injury, such as putting pressure on the swollen eye or trying to force it open. If you need a pain reliever, take an analgesic such as aspirin or ibuprofen, either of which will also help reduce swelling.

Conventional Medicine for a Black Eye

A doctor will recommend applying an ice pack to a black eye or a cloth soaked in ice-cold water and wrung out. Hold the ice pack or cold compress to the eye for up to 10 minutes, being careful not to push too hard. You might try putting crushed ice in a plastic bag and taping it to the forehead. Repeat the cold treatment for 5-10 minutes every hour for 24 hours or as long as swelling is present.

Remember, you will not be able to determine the possibility of eye damage by simply looking in the mirror. If the eyeball itself is damaged or if vision is affected, your doctor or ophthalmologist is best qualified to determine the nature and extent of any eye injuries and to give appropriate treatment. Time is critical! Do not hesitate to seek medical assistance whenever eye trauma occurs.