What causes redness, swelling, and pain in the corner of the eye, and what should be done about it?
Nov 19, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Wang Lei
Introduction
In general, redness, swelling, and pain in the corner of the eye may be caused by excessive eye rubbing, foreign body irritation, hordeolum (stye), angular blepharitis, or dacryocystitis. Individuals can choose appropriate measures to alleviate symptoms based on their specific condition. It is important to maintain hand hygiene and avoid rubbing the eyes unnecessarily. Proper eye protection should be taken to reduce exposure to foreign irritants. If symptoms worsen or vision is affected, prompt medical attention is necessary.
Under normal circumstances, redness, swelling, and pain in the corner of the eye may be caused by excessive eye rubbing, foreign body irritation, hordeolum (stye), angular blepharitis, or dacryocystitis. Individuals can choose appropriate measures based on their specific condition. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Excessive Eye Rubbing
Rubbing the eyes too hard or frequently can damage the mucous membrane and skin at the corner of the eye, causing local capillary dilation and congestion, leading to redness, swelling, and pain. Immediately stop rubbing the eyes and apply a clean, cool compress gently to reduce ocular irritation.
2. Foreign Body Irritation
When foreign bodies such as dust or sand enter the corner of the eye, they may abrade the conjunctiva and cornea, triggering a local inflammatory response that results in redness, swelling, and pain. Gently rinse the eye with saline solution. If the foreign body is difficult to remove, seek medical attention promptly.
3. Hordeolum (Stye)
An acute suppurative inflammation caused by bacterial infection of the eyelid glands, with blocked gland ducts leading to pus accumulation. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, and a hard lump at the corner of the eye. Under medical guidance, treatments may include levofloxacin eye drops, erythromycin eye ointment, or cefradine capsules. If an abscess forms, incision and drainage of the hordeolum may be required.
4. Angular Blepharitis
Caused by *Morax-Axenfeld* diplobacilli infection or vitamin B2 deficiency, resulting in congestion and erosion of the eyelid margin at the corner of the eye. Symptoms include redness, swelling, pain, and itching. Under medical supervision, treatment may involve zinc sulfate eye drops, tobramycin eye drops, and oral vitamin B2 tablets. Keeping the corner of the eye clean and dry is also important.
5. Dacryocystitis
Blockage of the nasolacrimal duct causes tear retention, allowing bacterial growth and subsequent inflammation. This leads to congestion and swelling in the lacrimal sac area, resulting in redness, swelling, and pain at the inner corner of the eye, often accompanied by excessive tearing. Under medical guidance, treatment options may include tobramycin-dexamethasone eye drops, cefixime dispersible tablets, or ofloxacin eye drops. In severe cases, a dacryocystorhinostomy (tear sac to nasal cavity connection) surgery may be necessary.
In daily life, maintain good hand hygiene and avoid rubbing the eyes unnecessarily. Take proper precautions to protect the eyes and minimize exposure to foreign particles. If symptoms worsen or vision becomes affected, seek prompt medical care to restore eye health through appropriate and timely intervention.
