Black Eye First Aid - Kit, Home Care, What to Expect

Feb 14 , 2022 | 1 min read

A black eye is caused by bleeding beneath the skin around the eye. Extensively bruised eyes (raccoon eyes) indicate more extensive injury, even a skull fracture. While many black eye injuries aren't serious, there can be instances where there is bleeding inside the eye. Bleeding in the front part of the eye, called a Hyphema is serious and can reduce vision and damage the cornea – the clear, protective 'window' at the front of the eye. In some cases, abnormally high pressure inside the eyeball (glaucoma) can also result in blindness. For this reason, it is advisable to have an eye specialist examine your eyeball if you suffered a severe injury that caused a black eye. Eye problems should never be ignored. Medical intervention can prevent blindness.

What to Expect

Bluish discoloration and red eye
Increased local temperature and swelling
Inability to open eye

When to Rush to the Doctor

Change in vision
Prolonged severe pain
Signs of infection - warmth, redness, pus discharge
Behavioural changes - forgetfulness, lethargy
Nausea, vomiting, dizziness
Swelling over the eyes
Inability to move the eye
Fluid leaking from the eyeball
Signs of head injury
Temporary loss of consciousness

Home Care

Apply a cold pack or a cloth filled with ice as soon as possible after the injury to reduce swelling Continue using ice or cold packs for 24 to 48 hours, only while awake
Be sure there's no blood within the black and white parts of the eye
Protect from further injury by avoiding athletic activities
Do not apply pressure on the eye itself
Seek immediate medical

A First-Aid Kit for Black Eye Should Include