Swollen eyelids causes

How is it possible that our eyelids can swell? This is due to the anatomical structure of the eyelids. The skin on the eyelids is very thin and the tissue underneath is relatively loose and soft.

There are few fat cells in it, but all the more blood vessels and lymphatic channels. As a result, a lot of fluid is displaced in a very limited area. The eyelids are additionally limited by the so-called tarsus, a connective tissue base plate that forms the basis for the eyelids and is firmly attached to the eye socket in the corners of the eye.

On the one hand, it acts as a solid “foundation stone” for the eyelid, on the other hand it also limits it and functions like a barrier. If the fluid level in the entire body rises even a little, this can be seen very quickly on the eyelids, since this is where oedema is first formed, i.e. accumulations of fluid in the tissue where not so much fluid actually belongs.This fluid can drain off through the anatomy most likely across the root of the nose to the other side and into the other eyelid, which is why it is rare for one eyelid alone to swell, but usually both are affected. It is quite natural and not worrying if you wake up in the morning with slightly thick and swollen eyelids.

When lying down, the body fluids are distributed a little differently than when standing up and so a slight edema can sometimes occur in the area of the eyelids. However, with the first few steps, the circulation in the body gets going again and the edema subsides very quickly. In some women, menstruation can often cause swollen eyelids, but this is hormonal.

If the swelling does not disappear after some time or if there are additional complaints, either in the immediate area of the eyes or in other parts of the body, caution is advised and a doctor’s visit is recommended. It is also possible that the swelling of the eyelids is caused by a disease of the internal organs, for example the liver or the kidneys. If this is suspected, the family doctor should be consulted, who will then issue a referral to the appropriate internist.

Symptoms that can point the way forward include tiredness and exhaustion, lack of concentration and even clouding of consciousness. If the swelling of the eyelid sets in very suddenly and is accompanied by shortness of breath and severe abdominal pain, this is definitely a case for the emergency physician. If a patient is diagnosed with an existing angioedema, emergency medication is usually available.