What Is a Black Eye?
A black eye, medically known as a periorbital hematoma, occurs when blood and other fluids collect in the space around the eye following an injury to the face or head.
Common Causes
- Direct trauma to the eye area
- Facial injuries or accidents
- Sports injuries
- Falls
- Nasal surgery complications
- Dental procedures
Symptoms
Primary Symptoms
- Bruising around the eye
- Swelling of the eyelid and surrounding tissues
- Pain and tenderness
- Possible difficulty opening the eye
Warning Signs
- Vision changes or blurriness
- Severe pain
- Blood in the white of the eye
- Inability to move the eye
Treatment
Immediate Care (First 24-48 Hours)
- Apply cold compresses for 15-20 minutes at a time
- Keep head elevated, including while sleeping
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed
Ongoing Care
- After 48 hours, switch to warm compresses
- Gentle massage of the area to promote circulation
- Protection from further injury
When to Seek Medical Attention
Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- Double vision
- Loss of vision
- Severe pain
- Blood pooling in the eye
- Clear fluid leaking from the nose
Recovery Timeline
Most black eyes heal within 2-3 weeks, following this pattern:
- Days 1-3: Peak swelling and darkness
- Days 4-7: Color changes begin
- Days 8-21: Gradual fading
Prevention
- Wear protective eyewear during sports
- Use appropriate safety equipment
- Practice caution during high-risk activities
Complications
Rare but serious complications may include:
- Orbital fracture
- Vision damage
- Traumatic hyphema
- Retinal detachment