There may also be accompanying symptoms like itching, a creamy discharge, or breathing problems.
But there are also times when the cause of eye swelling is not so clear.
This often leads to sleep-disordered breathing in which abnormal patterns of breathing cause blood oxygen levels to drop.
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The dilation, in turn, can cause fluids to leach into surrounding tissues.
When the delicate tissues of the lower eyelid are involved, puffiness can ensue.
Diet
Sodiumis one of several minerals that regulate the movement of water in and out of cells.
This is what water retention means.
The more you cry, the worse the swelling can become.
Allergies
Allergies can also cause puffy eyes.
These not only includeseasonal allergies(hay fever) but also allergies to foods and medications.
Allergies result when exposure to an allergy-causing substance (allergen) triggers the release ofhistamineinto the bloodstream.
Histamine is a chemical that induces inflammation, causing blood vessels to swell and leak fluids into surrounding tissues.
When the eyes and nasal passages are involved, puffiness and sneezing can occur.
Nasal congestion makes things worse by increasing fluid drainage into surrounding tissues, including around the eyes.
Some of the more common allergens include:
In most cases, these allergies will cause bilateral swelling.
The eyes are no exception.
This ultimately results in lower eyelid fat prolapse (“baggy eyes”).
With baggy eyes, the laxity and porousness of the skin make them more vulnerable to fluid retention.
The accumulated fat beneath the eyes can also readily absorb and retain fluid.
The most commonly affected areas are the face, arms, legs, and airways.
Medical Conditions Causing Swollen Eyes
There are many medical conditions in which puffy eyes are common.
This is especially true if the eye puffiness is unilateral and occurs for no apparent reason.
Healthcare providers often suspect certain conditions based on how theytypicallypresent themselves.
There are no hard and fast rules.
Depending on the cause, you may be able to get rid of puffy eyes completely.
This is usually done on an outpatient basis underlocal or general anesthesia.
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