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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.

related information

credits

current as of: june 5, 2023

author: healthwise staff
clinical review board
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