What causes eye pain and swelling?
Generally, eye pain and swelling may be caused by eye fatigue, overuse of the eyes, crying, conjunctivitis, eyelid gland inflammation (blepharitis), dry eye syndrome, and other conditions. Prompt medical attention is advised, and treatment should follow medical guidance. Specific details are as follows:
1. Eye fatigue or overuse: Prolonged use of electronic devices, reading, or writing can cause the eye muscles to remain tense for extended periods, leading to excessive contraction of the extraocular muscles and ciliary muscles, resulting in spasms and causing eye pain and a sensation of swelling. It is important to take regular breaks and avoid overstraining the eyes. After using your eyes for a period, you can look into the distance or close your eyes to rest and relieve eye fatigue.
2. Crying: Prolonged crying before sleep the previous night may lead to the accumulation of excess interstitial fluid in the subcutaneous tissue of the eyelids, causing eye swelling. Additionally, frequent eye rubbing during crying may worsen ocular discomfort. Avoid rubbing your eyes with your hands to prevent exacerbation of symptoms. Ensuring adequate sleep can aid in eye recovery.
3. Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis is an inflammation caused by bacterial, viral, or fungal infection of the ocular tissues. After infecting the eyes, these pathogens can cause conjunctival hyperemia and edema, leading to eye pain and swelling, often accompanied by increased secretions. Follow medical advice to treat infections with medications such as Levofloxacin Hydrochloride Tablets, Acyclovir Tablets, and Loratadine Tablets.
4. Eyelid gland inflammation (blepharitis): Blepharitis is an acute suppurative inflammation caused by bacterial invasion of the meibomian glands. The inflammation can cause redness, swelling, and pain of the eyelids, the formation of abscesses, and may also be accompanied by localized warmth in the eyelid. Anti-inflammatory treatment should be administered under a doctor's guidance using medications such as Amoxicillin Capsules, Cefradine Capsules, and Penicillin V Potassium Tablets.
5. Dry eye syndrome: Dry eye syndrome is an ocular condition caused by insufficient tear production or excessive tear evaporation. Inadequate tear production can lead to reduced ocular surface moisture, causing eye pain and swelling, and may also be accompanied by blurred vision. Follow medical advice for treatment with medications such as Sodium Hyaluronate Eye Drops, Jinzhen Eye Drops, and Fluorometholone Eye Drops.
During treatment, appropriate therapeutic measures should be taken according to the specific cause, and attention should be paid to maintaining good living and dietary habits to promote ocular health and recovery.
References:
1. Zhao Kanxing, Yang Peizeng. Ophthalmology [M]. 9th Edition. Beijing: People's Medical Publishing House, 2018.