Swollen Eyes In Babies: Causes, Home Remedies & Treatment

The underlying reasons range from infection to injury, and treatment depends on the cause.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Regina A. Hardin, MD Dr. Regina A. Hardin Dr. Regina A. HardinMD MomJunction on FacebookFollow MomJunction on LinkedinFollow MomJunction on Instagram Specialty: PediatricsExperience: 20 years
Written by , BDS, PGCAD Dr. Meenakshi Maruwada BDS, PGCAD Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Dental and General HealthExperience: 12 years
Edited by , BSc, MBA Rohit Garoo BSc, MBA Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Baby Health and WellnessExperience: 9 years
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A Baby With Swollen Eyes

Image: Midjourney/ MomJunction Design Team

Swollen baby eyes can leave parents worried since eyes are delicate and essential organs. The swelling of the eyes can be of different intensities, depending on the underlying reasons, including infections and injuries. Sustained swelling may increase the risk of vision and other eye-related problems. Prompt identification and treatment can help improve outcomes and prevent complications.

Read this post to know about the various reasons, home remedies, and treatment options for swollen eyes in babies.

In This Article

Key Pointers

  • Depending on the severity, swollen eyes in babies can be mild, moderate, or severe.
  • Swelling in one eye may be caused by insect bites or allergies, while swelling in both the eyes may be due to conjunctivitis or edema.
  • Treatment of swollen eyes may include antibacterial eye drops, topical antibiotics, surgical corrections, and more.
  • Mild or moderate swelling can be treated with home remedies such as ice packs or warm compresses.
  • Consult a doctor if the baby has severe symptoms, including fever with swelling, pus oozing from the eye, or pain in the eyelids.

Severity Of Baby’s Swollen Eyes

The swelling in a baby’s eyes includes swelling in the tissues of the eyelids, eyeballs, and the orbits where the eyeballs are located. The severity of eye swelling in babies can be determined through the following scale (1).

  • Mild swelling: The swelling is considered mild when the puffiness is limited to the eyelids, but they open normally.
  • Moderate swelling: The eyes are more than puffy, but the eyes are still opening normally.
  • Severe swelling: The swollen lids cause the eyes to shut or remain almost shut. There may also be swelling in the eyeball tissues, such as the conjunctiva and scleraiThe white coating on the outer surface of the eyes that extended to the corners. (white of the eye).

Infographic: Interpreting Causes And Tips To Prevent Eye Swelling In Babies

causes and preventive methods for swollen baby (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

What Causes Swelling In Baby’s Eyes?

There are several reasons for eye swelling, depending on whether one or both the eyes are affected (2).

Causes of swelling in one eye

  1. Rubbing the eye: It is common for babies to touch or rub their eyes with dirty hands. Baby rubbing eyes can cause dust and other irritants on the hands, such as food particles, to enter the eyes and irritate them, causing them to swell temporarily and become irritated.
Rubbing the eyes with dirty hands may cause swelling

Image: Shutterstock

  1. Insect bites: Insect bite on the periorbitaiThe area that consists of the layer and tissues and surrounds the orbit. (region around the orbit or eye socket) or on the eyelid may lead to swollen baby eyes. Mosquito and ant bites are some common reasons.
  1. Allergies and contact dermatitis: Babies susceptible to allergies or related conditions, such as contact dermatitis (eczemai), may develop swollen and itchy eyes on contact with an allergen. Some common triggers are plants, insects, pollen, dust, and pet dander.
  1. Sty: Sty in babies could occur due to infection or blockage of oil gland ducts of the eyelid or the follicles of the eyelashes. The condition can cause a prominent boil on the affected eyelid. ChalazioniPainful and irritating red bump on the eyelid. , which only affects the oil gland ducts, could also lead to the same results.
protip_icon Point to consider
A sty can be painful, but it doesn’t usually cause eye damage. Most cases resolve in a few days, and antibiotics are only used if they become recurrent (3).
  1. Dacryocystitis: It is the infection of the lacrimal saciA hollow structure near the inner corner of the eye, responsible for draining tears from the tear-producing glands into the nose. or the tear sac, which lies in the inner corner of the eye towards the nose. Bacteria are the most common cause of this infection.
  1. Blocked tear ducts: According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, blocked ducts are prevalent among 20% of babies born in the US. The tear duct or the nasolacrimal duct drains the tears from the eyes to the nasal cavity. A blocked tear duct in babies could lead to crusty and swollen eyes. There are several reasons behind blocked tear ducts, including congenital anomaliesiStructural or functional abnormalities that happen inside the womb and are present at birth. of the tear duct (4).
  1. Sinus infections: Sinuses lie between the nasal cavity and the eyes. Any infection in the sinuses may result in swelling around the eyes.
  1. Periorbital cellulitis: It is the infection of the tissue of the periorbita, the region around the eye socket. Bacteria are the most common causes of the infection (5).
  1. Blepharitis: Blepharitis is an eyelid condition caused by a bacterial infection or abnormal production and secretion of the sebaceous glands. Inflammation of these oil-producing glands leads to eyelid swelling and crusting around the eyelashes. Although treatable, blepharitis may recur even after many years (6).
  1. Injuries: Eye injuries caused by direct contact with soap, dirt in the eyes, or being hurt in the eye can cause redness and swelling of the eyelid. A recent injury around the eye area, even if not directly to the eyes, can also cause a swollen eyelid (7).

Causes of swelling in both eyes

  1. Conjunctivitis: Conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye, is the inflammation of the conjunctiva, the thin membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the sclera (the white part of the eye). Pink eye in babies can be caused by bacterial or viral infections, or it can result from an allergy, leading to redness and swelling of the conjunctiva.
Conjunctivitis could occur due to bacterial or viral infections

Image: Shutterstock

  1. Edema around the eyes: EdemaiSwelling of the body parts due to excess fluid accumulation in bodily tissues. is the retention of fluid within body tissues, causing localized swelling. Periorbital edema could occur due to fluid accumulation around the eyes. It may result from serious underlying issues, such as kidney, liver, or heart problems. Nephrotic syndrome is a condition that causes too much protein to enter the kidneys, causing edema and swelling around the baby’s eye, especially after they wake from sleep (8).
  1. Anaphylaxis: It is a life-threatening allergic reaction, causing swollen body tissues, including eyes and eyelids. It is often accompanied by breathing or swallowing difficulty and skin hives. Certain food items, drugs, and the sting of some insects, such as bees, are common triggers.
protip_icon Be watchful
Antibiotic eye drops may cause allergic reactions, leading to severe swelling in both eyes (9).

Besides these causes, other eye injuries could also lead to swollen eyes in babies. If you notice swelling in one or both of the baby’s eyes after an injury, take your baby to a doctor immediately. If the injury is due to a chemical or substance entering the baby’s eyes, carry the container of the compound so that the healthcare providers may administer the relevant antidote or remedy.

How Are Swollen Eyes In Babies Treated?

The treatment of swollen eyes depends on the cause and intensity of swelling. Mild and moderate swelling may not require any treatment. Severe swelling and some cases of swollen eyes may require the following treatment modalities.

  • Antibacterial eye drops may be advised in case of bacterial conjunctivitis (10).
Antibacterial eye drops may be advised in case of bacterial conjunctivitis

Image: IStock

  • Allergy-related swelling and conjunctivitis in the eye may require antihistamine drops and oral medication.
  • Topical antibiotics may be prescribed for external eyelid swelling, such as due to a sty.
  • Surgical correction of anomalies, such as tear duct blockage, may be needed in some cases.
  • Serious infections, such as periorbital cellulitis, may require hospital admission and administration of intravenous antibiotics (11).
  • Relevant treatment for other causes, such as nephrotic syndrome, may be needed to cure swollen eyes in some cases.

Home Remedies For Swollen Eyes In Babies

You may consider the following home remedies for mild to moderate eye swelling in babies (2).

  • If swollen eyes are due to an insect bite, it is usually harmless and resolves by itself. If the baby seems uncomfortable, you may apply an ice pack or ice wrapped in a wet cloth to the affected eye for five minutes at a time for 20 minutes and alleviate any burning sensation (1).
  • If your baby’s eye swelling is due to a sty, apply a warm compress for five minutes, three to five times a day. Use a clean washcloth each time.
If the swelling is due to a sty, apply a warm compress with a clean washcloth

Image: IStock

  • If your baby’s eye swelling is due to contact dermatitis or allergy, avoiding the substance is the best way to relieve the swelling and prevent it from recurring (11).
  • If your baby’s eyes get swollen due to an infection, contact a pediatrician for a proper diagnosis and treatment. At home, you may take precautions such as washing hands before touching the baby, cleaning the baby’s towels and bedding weekly, and disinfecting floors, cribs, toys, and other items to prevent infections (12).
  • If a baby has a swollen eye due to a foreign object or irritant, such as dirt or an insect, using a sterile saline rinse can help remove it. However, consult a pediatrician beforehand to learn the correct dosage and administration method. Only use saline specifically designed for eye use from a pharmacy or the type recommended by a doctor, as homemade saline could cause eye infections (13).

protip_icon Quick tip
Give Benadryl if children aged one year and above have swollen eyes with itching. Consult a doctor before giving the medicine (1).

When To See A Doctor?

The swollen eyelids’ severity and associated symptoms should guide you to decide if you must call your doctor.

You must call your pediatrician and seek immediate care in the following cases (2).

  • Severe swelling in one or both eyes
  • Eye swelling is accompanied by a fever
Consult a doctor if the eye swelling is accompanied by a fever

Image: IStock

  • Eyelids or sclera appear red, swollen, and puffy
  • Pus or watery liquid oozes from the eye
  • Baby shows behavioral changes or appears unwell

You may contact a pediatrician within 24 hours in the following cases.

  • Baby has one or two swollen eyelids with no fever and no effect on the baby’s routine
  • Sore or tender eyelids with no other symptoms
  • Periorbital swelling (swelling around the eyes) but no other symptoms
  • Redness and mild swelling of the sclera but no fever
  • Cloudy vision

Illustration: Swollen Eyes In Babies: Causes Home Remedies & Treatment

Swollen Eyes In Babies: Causes, Home Remedies & Treatment_illustration

Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is it okay to put breastmilk in the baby’s eye?

Some research suggests breastmilk is as effective as other ophthalmic solutions for managing eye discharge. You should consult your baby’s pediatrician before putting breast milk in your baby’s eyes (14).

2. Can a baby’s eye infection go away on its own?

Eye infections in babies always need medical attention. In most cases, the doctor may prescribe antibiotic eye drops or ointments (15).

3. How long does it take for swollen eyes in babies to go away?

Swelling in a baby’s eyes may take anywhere from one to three days to go away, depending on the cause. However, it is recommended to consult a doctor if other symptoms appear after the initial 24 hours or if the condition persists beyond the three-day period with no other symptoms (2).

4. Can food allergies cause eye swelling in babies?

Food allergies or sensitivities might lead to eye swelling or swelling of the eyelids as part of a broader allergic reaction (16). If a baby consistently has eye swelling after eating certain foods, it may indicate an allergy. Remember, any sudden or severe eye swelling should be evaluated by a healthcare provider promptly.

Swollen baby eyes are often caused by allergies, insect bites, sty, rubbing of eyes, or blocked tear ducts. Usually, allergies and conjunctivitis cause swelling in both eyes, and other conditions can be limited to one eye. The severity of swelling may vary from mild to severe, that is, from puffiness of eyes to closed eyes due to eyelid swelling. Although it can be worrisome for parents, most babies get better with simple home care measures. Eye drops and ointments are prescribed for most babies with swollen eyes, and if there is an anatomical abnormality, surgical correction is recommended.

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.

1. Eye Swelling; Children’s Hospital Colorado
2. Eye Swelling; Seattle Children’s Hospital
3. Stye; Raising Children Network
4. Blocked Tear Ducts; C. S. Mott Children’s Hospital
5. Cellulitis of the Eye in Children; University of Rochester Medical Center
6. Blepharitis in Children; University of Rochester Medical Center
7. Eye Injury; Seattle Children’s Hospital
8. Childhood Nephrotic Syndrome; National Kidney Foundation
9. Eye Swelling; HealthyChildren.org
10. Conjunctivitis in Children; Stanford Children’s Health
11. Art Papier, David Tuttle, and Tara J. Mahar, Differential Diagnosis of Swollen Red Eyelid; American Family Physician
12. A Guide to Eye Infections; Optometrists Network
13. Saline Solution; Cleveland Clinic
14. Tetsu Sugimura, et al.; Efficacy and safety of breast milk eye drops in infants with eye discharge; National Library of Medicine
15. Sticky eye; Pregnancy, Birth and Baby
16. Food Allergy; Penn Medicine

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Dr. Regina A. Hardin
Dr. Regina A. HardinMD, FAAP
Dr. Regina Hardin is a board-certified pediatrician with over 20 years of experience in outpatient and inpatient pediatrics. She also has extensive training in diagnosing and treating Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder.

Read full bio of Dr. Regina A. Hardin
Dr. Meenakshi Maruwada
Dr. Meenakshi MaruwadaBDS, PGCAD
Dr. Meenakshi is a dentist and a passionate writer with over eight years of experience in dentistry and four years in writing. She started her career as a dentist with a dental chain in Mumbai and soon rose to lead the clinic as a Head Dentist.

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Rohit Garoo
Rohit GarooBSc, MBA
Rohit Garoo is a writer-turned-editor with over 9 years of experience in content writing, editing, and content marketing. He did his bachelors in Science at St. Xavier's College, Hyderabad, and masters in Business Administration at Osmania University.

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Vidya Tadapatri
Vidya TadapatriMSc (Biotechnology)
Vidya did her post-graduation in Biotechnology from Osmania University, Hyderabad. Her interest in scientific research and writing made her pursue a career in writing, in which she now has over five years of experience. She has done certified biotechnology-related training programs under renowned organizations such as Centre For Cellular & Molecular Biology and Department of Biotechnology.

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