[22F] With swollen, painful, and red bottom left eyelid

Patient Description

A 22-year-old female reports experiencing discomfort in her bottom left eyelid for the past two days. The eyelid is slightly swollen, red, and painful, especially when blinking. The pain started suddenly and has gradually worsened. It is described as throbbing and dull. The patient has noticed a slight change in vision but reports no discharge or crusting around the eyelid. There have been no recent injuries to the eye or head, and no exposure to allergens or irritants. The patient has not noticed any lumps or bumps on the eyelid and has not experienced any fever or general feeling of being unwell. She does not wear contact lenses, has not traveled recently, and has no pre-existing conditions or chronic illnesses. The patient is not currently taking any medications.

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Arora's Assessment

What might be happening

Based on the information you have provided, here are some possible explanations for your symptoms:

  • Stye (Hordeolum): A stye is a common infection of the oil glands in the eyelid, often caused by bacteria. It can cause redness, swelling, and pain, especially when blinking. Styes usually appear as a small, red bump on the edge of the eyelid.

    • Treatment: Warm compresses applied to the affected area several times a day can help the stye to drain and heal. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help manage discomfort. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe antibiotic ointments or drops.
  • Chalazion: A chalazion is a blocked oil gland in the eyelid that can cause swelling and redness. Unlike a stye, a chalazion is usually not painful but can cause discomfort and a feeling of pressure.

    • Treatment: Similar to a stye, warm compresses can help. If the chalazion does not improve, a doctor may need to drain it or prescribe medication.
  • Blepharitis: This is an inflammation of the eyelids that can cause redness, swelling, and pain. It is often associated with dandruff of the scalp or eyebrows, or a bacterial infection.

    • Treatment: Good eyelid hygiene is crucial. This includes gently cleaning the eyelids with a warm, damp cloth and possibly using a mild soap or baby shampoo. In some cases, a doctor may prescribe antibiotic ointments or drops.

What you can do

While it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and treatment plan, here are some steps you can take to alleviate your symptoms:

  1. Apply Warm Compresses: Use a clean, warm, damp cloth and place it over your affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes, several times a day. This can help reduce swelling and promote drainage if there is an infection.
  2. Maintain Good Eyelid Hygiene: Gently clean your eyelids with a warm, damp cloth. You can use a mild soap or baby shampoo to help remove any debris or crusting.
  3. Avoid Touching or Rubbing Your Eyes: This can help prevent further irritation or infection.
  4. Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: If the pain is bothersome, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to help manage discomfort.
  5. Use MDandMe: Keep a journal of your symptoms, track your progress, and share your notes with your healthcare provider. This can help in monitoring your condition and making informed decisions about your care.

What you should look out for

Seek medical attention if you experience any of the following:

  • Increased Pain or Swelling: If the pain or swelling worsens or does not improve with home treatment.
  • Vision Changes: If you notice significant changes in your vision, such as blurriness or difficulty seeing.
  • Discharge or Crusting: If you develop discharge or crusting around your eyelid.
  • Fever or Feeling Unwell: If you develop a fever or start feeling generally unwell, as this could indicate a more serious infection.

Remember, while these tips can help manage your symptoms, it's important to consult a healthcare professional for a formal diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

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5 mo ago

People Also Ask


What is the difference between a stye and a chalazion?

A stye is an infection of the oil glands in the eyelid, often painful and appearing as a red bump on the edge of the eyelid. A chalazion is a blocked oil gland that causes swelling and redness but is usually not painful.


How can I treat a stye at home?

To treat a stye at home, apply warm compresses to the affected eyelid for 10-15 minutes several times a day. This can help the stye to drain and heal. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help manage discomfort.


When should I see a doctor for eyelid swelling?

You should see a doctor if the pain or swelling worsens, if you notice significant changes in your vision, if there is discharge or crusting around your eyelid, or if you develop a fever or start feeling generally unwell.


Can blepharitis cause changes in vision?

Blepharitis can cause discomfort and inflammation of the eyelids, which might lead to temporary changes in vision, such as blurriness. However, significant or persistent vision changes should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.


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