What causes conjunctival congestion and swelling?

Retinal congestion and swelling may be caused by crying, staying up late, dacryoadenitis, cellulitis, allergic conjunctivitis, scleritis, etc. Symptomatic treatment should be administered according to the specific condition. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Crying or staying up late

If a patient rubs their eyes excessively after prolonged crying or stays awake for extended periods leading to eye fatigue, it may cause dilation of ocular capillaries or bulbar conjunctiva, resulting in retinal congestion and swelling. This condition can generally be relieved through cold compresses or adequate rest.

2. Dacryoadenitis

Dacryoadenitis caused by bacterial or viral infections may also lead to retinal congestion and swelling, often accompanied by symptoms such as fever and purulent discharge. Under medical guidance, patients should receive treatment targeting the underlying cause. If the condition results from a viral infection, antiviral eye drops prescribed by a doctor—such as acyclovir ophthalmic solution or ganciclovir ophthalmic solution—can help alleviate symptoms.

3. Cellulitis

Orbital cellulitis due to microbial infections (e.g., bacteria, viruses, parasites) may cause retinal congestion and swelling, along with possible symptoms including decreased vision and eye protrusion. Patients should receive targeted treatment under medical supervision. In cases of bacterial infection, improvement can be achieved using antibiotics such as ceftazidime for injection or doxycycline hydrochloride tablets.

4. Allergic Conjunctivitis

Allergic conjunctivitis occurs when the conjunctiva mounts an abnormal, excessive immune response to allergens. It commonly affects individuals with allergic predispositions and is more prevalent among children and young adults. Risk factors include keeping pets, wearing contact lenses, and poor living hygiene. Symptoms typically include increased conjunctival secretions, itching, redness of the white part of the eye, and swollen, congested eyeballs. Under medical guidance, oral medications such as cetirizine hydrochloride tablets or loratadine tablets may be used for treatment.

5. Scleritis

Scleritis is an inflammatory condition affecting the outer wall of the eyeball and can occur at any age. It is primarily caused by pathogen infection or trauma. Common symptoms include eye discomfort and proptosis (bulging eyes), as well as swollen and congested eyeballs. Under medical supervision, treatments may include tobramycin-dexamethasone ophthalmic solution or prednisolone acetate tablets.

In addition, such symptoms could also be related to diabetes. Patients experiencing the above symptoms are advised to seek timely evaluation at a reputable hospital and receive treatment based on diagnostic findings.