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Home Knowledge Center Wellness Library Eye Injury: First Aid for a Black Eye

Eye Injury: First Aid for a Black Eye

Overview

A black eye is a type of bruise. Simple bruises are treated with ice and by elevating the head. The bruise should be gone in 2 to 3 weeks.

  • Inspect the eyeball.

    Be sure to look at the eyeball for possible injury.

  • Use ice or cold.

    Apply ice or cold packs for 15 minutes 3 or 4 times a day during the first 48 hours to help reduce swelling. Place a cloth between the ice and the skin. The sooner you apply a cold pack, the less swelling will occur.

    • Do not use chemical cooling packs. If the pack leaks, the chemicals could cause more eye damage.
    • Do not use a raw piece of meat on a black eye.
  • Keep the head raised to help reduce swelling.
  • Follow with warmth.

    After the swelling is gone, warm compresses may relieve pain.

  • Be safe with medicines. Read and follow all instructions on the label.

    If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed. If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter medicine.

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Ignite Healthwise, LLC education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com.

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