A 26-year-old member asked:
My upper eyelid is swollen and a bit redish, what could that be and what to do?
4 doctor answers • 10 doctors weighed in
Dr. Christopher Hoodanswered
Ophthalmology 16 years experience
Stye: Although there are many reasons for a swollen red eyelid, a chalazion or "stye" is probably the most common. It is not an infection but essentially a blocked oil gland on the eyelid. Usually they will resolve with warm compresses on the eyelid a few times a day for about a week. If is doesn't resolve, seek care from an eye doctor.
6.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Victor Belloanswered
Ophthalmology 53 years experience
Diagnosis First: In all of medicine, eye conditions included, establishing a proper diagnosis is most important. A visit to your ophthalmologist is essential. A swollen, reddish eye lid can be caused by acute infections such as conjunctivitis - the eyes themselves would also be red and tearing - a blocked oil gland is not uncommon - chalazion- sometimes swelling of the lids may represent a thyroid condition.
6.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. David G. O'Dayanswered
Ophthalmology 37 years experience
See an eye MD: Although it may be a minimal problems, there are several things that may cause eyelid swelling and redness. It is best to schedule an appointment with an eye care specialist to examine you and determine the cause.
6.1k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Dr. Andrew Shatzanswered
Ophthalmology 27 years experience
See an eye doctor: If the lid is diffusely swollen rather than in one small area, this may be an infection that can either resolve on its own leaving a stye behind. If left untreated, a portion of these can become serious lid infections. It is best to see an eye doctor as soon as possible instead of letting it resolve on its own. You may benefit from early antibiotic treatment.
6.1k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 32-year-old member asked:
What could be causing my upper eyelid to be swollen?
1 doctor answer • 2 doctors weighed in
Dr. David Chandleranswered
Ophthalmology 34 years experience
Infection / allergy: Swelling of the upper eyelid could be from an infected oil gland or skin glan, from a blocked oil gland (stye or chalazion), from allergy, from an insect bite or exposure, and from edema related to lying down. Infections are usually painful, tender and diffuse, while a stye is more like a non-tender lump. Allergy usually is associated with itching. Also, blepharitis is a chronic low grade infection.
5.3k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Nov 7, 2016
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.