Why do my eyes swell after taking Gleevec?

　　Gleevec usually refers to imatinib mesylate tablets. Generally, eye swelling after taking imatinib mesylate tablets may be caused by the drug's fluid retention effect, individual tolerance differences, allergic conjunctivitis, blepharitis, abnormal kidney function, and other reasons. If eye swelling persists without relief or is accompanied by symptoms such as pain and blurred vision, it is recommended to seek timely treatment at a reputable hospital. Detailed analysis is as follows:

　　1. Drug-induced fluid retention

　　Imatinib mesylate tablets may affect water and sodium metabolism in the body, leading to fluid retention in tissue spaces. The eye tissues are loose and prone to swelling. In daily life, appropriate reduction of salt intake, avoiding excessive water consumption, elevating the head appropriately during rest to promote fluid return may help.

　　2. Individual tolerance differences

　　Different people may react differently to the medication. Some individuals may experience increased sensitivity of ocular tissues after taking the drug, leading to swelling. If symptoms are mild, continued observation is advised, along with attention to eye rest and avoiding prolonged eye use.

　　3. Allergic conjunctivitis

　　A small number of individuals may be allergic to the drug's components, causing allergic conjunctivitis and resulting in symptoms such as swollen eyelids and itchy eyes. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as epinastine hydrofluoride eye drops, levocabastine hydrochloride eye drops, or sodium cromoglycate eye drops may be used to relieve symptoms. Medication adjustments may be necessary when needed.

　　4. Blepharitis

　　The drug may indirectly affect the local immune status of the eyes, making the eyelids more susceptible to bacterial infection, leading to blepharitis, with symptoms such as swelling and redness. Under a doctor's guidance, medications such as erythromycin eye ointment, chlortetracycline hydrochloride eye ointment, or ofloxacin eye drops may be used for treatment, while maintaining ocular hygiene.

　　5. Abnormal kidney function

　　The drug may have a certain impact on kidney function, leading to impaired kidney function and obstruction of fluid excretion in the body, causing eye swelling. It is important to seek timely medical evaluation of kidney function and, under a doctor's guidance, use adjuvant medications such as Bailing Capsules, Jinshuibao Capsules, or Niaoduqing Granules. Medication regimens may need adjustment when necessary.

　　In daily life, maintaining good ocular hygiene and avoiding rubbing the eyes with hands is important. Keep a regular schedule and avoid staying up late. Eat a light diet and reduce intake of spicy and irritating foods. Strictly follow medical advice for medication, never adjust the dosage or stop taking the medication on your own, and have regular follow-up examinations of relevant indicators.