Chemosis of the eye

Synonyms

Conjunctival edema, chemosis, conjunctival edema, swelling of the conjunctiva of the eye.

Introduction – What is chemosis of the eye?

A swelling (edema) of the conjunctiva of the eye is called chemosis (conjunctival edema, chemosis, conjunctival edema). In chemosis, the conjunctiva stands out from the underlying dermis like a blister. A bright red, yellowish or whitish glassy bulge-like swelling of the conjunctiva is a typical characteristic of chemosis. The conjunctiva can swell out of the eyelid fissure and even partially cover the cornea. Chemosis is not contagious, but it is usually very unpleasant for those affected.

Symptoms of chemosis

During chemosis, the conjunctiva can swell by several millimetres within minutes, which can lead to injury when wearing contact lenses, as the conjunctiva often stands out strongly from the underlying dermis of the eye only in the area around the contact lens. Chemosis can be accompanied by both pain and itching, or it can go completely unnoticed by those affected.

Therapy of chemosis

The treatment is determined after the cause has been identified. Besides a wetting therapy, anti-inflammatory eye drops (antihistamines) are used. Homeopathic treatment also leads in most cases to a successful decongestant and healing of the chemosis without side effects.

Duration of a chemosis

The duration of conjunctival swelling is difficult to define as it depends on the cause. Usually, after removal of the cause, the conjunctival edema subsides rapidly. If the cause is an allergy, all allergy triggers must first be removed. In most cases the swelling will improve after a few days. However, if the swelling lasts longer, a doctor should be consulted.

What are the causes of chemosis of the eye?

Chemosis or conjunctival oedema can be caused by strong inflammation or irritation of the conjunctiva or neighbouring structures. Chemosis is also caused by congestion in the lymphatic system, irritation of the conjunctiva due to an allergic reaction (e.g. “hay fever“) or incompatibility of care products for contact lenses. In addition, chemosis can also be caused by burns, which then often require less rapid treatment because the healing process takes longer.

Chemosis after cataract surgery

Cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye. Cataract surgery is one of the most common operations worldwide. The lens is removed and an artificial lens is inserted.

Due to the mechanical strain on the conjunctiva during the operation, a short-term swelling may occur. This causes fluid to accumulate in the tissue, which leads to oedema. However, this drains off over time, so that the swelling of the conjunctiva should subside after a few days.