How to reduce eye swelling after crying
Nov 18, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
Swelling of the eyes after crying can be reduced through cold compresses to constrict blood vessels, elevating the head to promote fluid drainage, gentle massage to improve circulation, avoiding eye irritation, and staying hydrated to regulate metabolism, all of which help quickly alleviate tissue swelling. If swelling persists for more than 24 hours or is accompanied by pain or blurred vision, prompt medical attention is recommended. Use a clean towel to wrap an ice pack or a damp towel that has been refrigerated.
After crying, eye swelling can be reduced through methods such as cold compresses to constrict blood vessels, elevating the head to promote fluid drainage, gentle massage to improve circulation, avoiding eye irritation, and drinking adequate water to regulate metabolism—these measures help quickly alleviate tissue edema. If swelling persists beyond 24 hours or is accompanied by pain or blurred vision, prompt medical attention is recommended.
1. Cold compress to constrict blood vessels: Wrap an ice pack or a chilled damp towel in a clean cloth and apply it to the swollen eyelid area for 10–15 minutes at a time. The low temperature helps constrict blood vessels, reduce fluid leakage into tissues, and quickly prevent further swelling.
2. Elevate the head for drainage: When resting, prop up your head so it is higher than your heart. This promotes the return of blood and lymphatic fluid from the eyes, preventing fluid accumulation in the eyelids and helping to reduce swelling—especially beneficial before bedtime.
3. Gentle massage to promote circulation: Using the pad of your ring finger, gently massage in circular motions from the inner corner to the outer corner of the eye. Use light pressure to avoid damaging the eyeball, which helps stimulate local blood circulation and drain excess fluid, thereby relieving swelling.
4. Avoid eye irritation: Refrain from rubbing your eyes or using irritating cosmetics. Minimize mechanical and chemical irritation to the eyelids to prevent worsening swelling or potential infection. Keep the eye area clean and dry.
5. Hydrate to regulate metabolism: Drink moderate amounts of warm water to boost overall metabolism, assist in eliminating excess bodily fluids, and indirectly support reduction of eye swelling. Dehydration can slow metabolism, so staying hydrated is important.
After crying, promptly clean away residual tears to prevent prolonged downward head positioning, which may worsen swelling. Use soft tissues to gently blot tears instead of rubbing. For those who frequently experience eye swelling from crying, keeping a cold compress ready in advance may be helpful.
