What causes one lower eyelid to swell for no apparent reason, and what should be done about it?
Oct 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Shuai
Introduction
Blepharitis is an eye inflammation caused by bacterial infection. Bacteria enter through the openings of the meibomian glands and infect the base of the eyelashes, leading to swelling of the lower eyelid in one eye. It is usually accompanied by symptoms such as eyelid induration, pain, and swelling. Patients can be treated with medications such as ofloxacin eye drops, chlortetracycline eye ointment, and tobramycin eye drops under medical guidance.
Under normal circumstances, sudden swelling of one lower eyelid may be caused by eye strain, lack of sleep, infection, blepharitis, or dacryocystitis. Treatment options such as general care or medication can be used under the guidance of a doctor. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Eye strain
Prolonged use of electronic devices such as computers and smartphones, or activities requiring extended focus like reading or writing, may lead to eye fatigue and result in swelling of one lower eyelid. Appropriate rest, looking into the distance periodically, closing the eyes to relax, and using warm compresses or heated eye masks can help improve blood circulation and reduce eye strain.
2. Lack of sleep
Chronic late nights or poor sleep quality can impair blood circulation around the eyes, causing fluid and blood to accumulate, leading to swelling in the lower eyelid of one eye. Ensuring sufficient sleep duration, improving sleep quality, and avoiding excessive use of electronic devices before bedtime can help reduce eye strain.
3. Infection
Infections are typically caused by pathogens such as bacteria or fungi entering the body. Local inflammatory reactions may occur, resulting in exudation of tissue fluid and swelling of the lower eyelid on one side. This may also be accompanied by symptoms such as pain and redness. Patients may take medications such as oseltamivir phosphate capsules, ribavirin tablets, or adefovir dipivoxil tablets as directed by a physician.
4. Blepharitis
Blepharitis is an eye inflammation caused by bacterial infection. Bacteria enter through the openings of the meibomian glands at the base of the eyelashes, causing infection and resulting in swelling of the lower eyelid on one side. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as eyelid lumps, pain, and swelling. Under medical guidance, patients may use medications such as ofloxacin eye drops, chlortetracycline hydrochloride eye ointment, or tobramycin eye drops for treatment.
5. Dacryocystitis
Dacryocystitis is an inflammation of the tear sac caused by streptococcal infection. The inflammation prevents normal drainage of tears, potentially leading to infection of the tear sac and causing the aforementioned symptoms. It is commonly accompanied by pain, excessive tearing, and increased eye discharge. Treatment should follow medical advice and may include medications such as pranoprofen eye drops, chloramphenicol eye drops, or gatifloxacin eye drops.
It is recommended to develop good eye-use habits, maintain a balance between work and rest, and avoid excessive fatigue to promote overall health.
