What should I do if my eyes are swollen from crying?

Jul 10, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

After breaking up with my boyfriend, I cried for a long time and my eyes became swollen. I would like to ask the doctor, what should I do if my eyes are swollen from crying?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Shuai
Eye swelling caused by crying is usually due to excessive tear production triggered by emotional excitement, leading to edema of the tissues around the eyes. The following measures may help relieve the swelling: 1. Cold compress: Gently apply a cold towel or ice pack to the swollen eyes for 15–20 minutes at a time. This helps constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. 2. Elevate the head: When sleeping, try using an extra pillow to raise your head, reducing blood flow to the eye area and helping to decrease swelling. 3. Avoid rubbing the eyes: Rubbing your eyes may worsen inflammation, so avoid touching or rubbing the swollen eyes as much as possible. 4. Eye massage: Gently massage around the eyes in outward direction from the inner corner to the outer corner of the eye. This can help promote lymphatic circulation and alleviate swelling. 5. Maintain hydration: Drink enough water to maintain the body's fluid balance, which helps eliminate excess salt from the body and reduce eye swelling. Note that if the swelling persists or is accompanied by symptoms such as pain, vision loss, or discharge, it may indicate an eye infection or other condition, and prompt medical attention should be sought.