How to Care For and Treat a Black Eye

The term Black Eye refers to a bruise around the delicate eye area. Sometimes a Black Eye can be a serious condition. It can signal a concussion or fractures to the bones around the eye. In most cases it's best to have a black eye checked out by a doctor.

Instructions

1. 

   Apply an ice pack for the first 24 hours to reduce any swelling. Place a thin dry towel around the ice pack, do not apply ice directly to skin especially the eye lid. Leave on for 5 to 7 minutes, remove for about 10 minutes and reapply. Repeat this process as often as possible for the first day. If you don't have an ice pack handy, use a bag of frozen vegetables or a can of a cold beverage.

2. 

   Apply warm compresses after the 24 hour period has elapsed. Warm compresses will help to take some of the color out of your shiner.

3. 

   Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain as needed.

4. 

   Call the doctor immediately if the white part of the eye gets red, if there is any weeping or discharge from the eye, if you have double vision, blurred vision, your pupil changes shape or your pupil looks cloudy. These are all signs of a potentially serious eye or head injury.